Validating the 4AT: A triage tool for delirium
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Development and validation of the 4AT: A new triage tool for delirium
IRAS ID
157434
Contact name
Alasdair McLullich
Contact email
Research summary
The overall aim of the research programme, of which this sub-study is a component part, is to develop further and investigate the diagnostic accuracy of a new screening instrument for delirium triage in older emergency patients requiring hospital assessment including admission. This new instrument will be based on the 4AT (www.the4at.com). The programme of work will have two main phases and an economic modelling study which will run in parallel. This sub-study within Phase 1 involves qualitative research to refine the 4AT. It will scope the issues surrounding identification of delirium using the instrument at different locations in the patient journey in acute care [Emergency Department (ED), Medical/Acute Assessment Unit (MAU/AAU) and Ward]; test acceptability and comprehensibility of instructions to non-specialist staff, and measure speed and ease of administration and acceptability for staff. The study will be performed combining ethnographic methods and interviews with staff. Ethnographic methods (observation and informant conversations with staff) will examine the organisational and clinical context within which delirium is assessed and identified and therefore how the tool might best be used in routine practice. Interviews with staff with varying knowledge of delirium in each location will explore ease, speed and acceptability of use of the tool in these different locations.
REC name
South West - Cornwall & Plymouth Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
14/SW/1095
Date of REC Opinion
22 Oct 2014
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion