ICDSC Calculator (ICU Delirium Screening Checklist) in Intensive Care

Delirium screening

ICDSC Calculator

Assess the patient using observations from the preceding 24 hours. Select every applicable finding.

1. Level of consciousness

Choose one option for this item.

2–8. Additional checklist features

Each selected item contributes one point.

This calculator supports clinical screening and does not replace clinical judgement, local ICU protocols, or a full diagnostic assessment.

The Intensive Care Delirium Screening Checklist (ICDSC) is a validated tool used by healthcare professionals to detect delirium in critically ill patients. Delirium, often called "acute brain failure," is a common complication in ICU patients characterized by acute fluctuations in mental status, inattention, and disorganized thinking.

The ICDSC consists of eight items that are evaluated over a 24-hour period:

  1. Altered level of consciousness
  2. Inattention
  3. Disorientation
  4. Hallucinations or delusions
  5. Psychomotor agitation or retardation
  6. Inappropriate speech or mood
  7. Sleep-wake cycle disturbance
  8. Symptom fluctuation

Each item scores 1 point if present, with a maximum score of 8. A score of 4 or more indicates delirium, while scores of 1-3 suggest subsyndromal delirium.

Early detection through tools like ICDSC is crucial as delirium is associated with prolonged mechanical ventilation, longer ICU and hospital stays, higher mortality, and long-term cognitive impairment.

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