Which of the following is a delirium risk factor?

• A. Mechanical Ventilation
• B. Environmental Factors
• C. Physical Restraints
• D. Sedation/Medication

Answer: (D)

Delirium in the ICU is driven strongly by medications and how we sedate patients. Many sedatives and psychoactive drugs disrupt brain neurotransmitters, tipping the brain into an incoherent, fluctuating mental state. The depth and duration of sedation are directly linked to delirium risk, so the pharmacologic approach to analgesia and sedation becomes a central, modifiable factor. While being on mechanical ventilation, environmental conditions, or restraints can be associated with delirium, they are typically intertwined with the need for sedative medications, and the drugs themselves have the most direct impact on brain function. By choosing lighter sedation and using delirium-sparing strategies, the risk is reduced.