Data-Driven Tool Predicts Delirium Risk

The geriatric medicine experts and the predictive analytics team at Hackensack University Medical Center have successfully implemented a new delirium predictive index tool that is helping to improve care delivery for older patients. By incorporating data-driven AI analytics into patients’ electronic medical records (EMR), the tool provides clinicians with actionable information about which patients are most likely to experience delirium during their hospital stay.

The tool uses a unique algorithm that pulls more than 100 data points from each patient’s electronic medical record (EMR) during the past 24 hours. After comparing the data to multiple evidence-based delirium risk factors, the algorithm provides the care team with a delirium risk score to easily identify which patients are at higher risk and require delirium specific interventions. Throughout the design, validation and implementation process, the geriatrics team worked closely with Hackensack Meridian Health bioethics experts to ensure the tool met all applicable ethical standards.

“Delirium is associated with an increased length of stay and a higher risk of mortality, pressure injuries, dementia, and falls,” said Manisha Parulekar, MD, AGSF, FACP, Division Chief of Geriatrics at Hackensack University Medical Center. “Our delirium predictive index gives the care team crucial information that enables them to intervene early or prevent delirium altogether, which may help to improve outcomes for our patients.”

Specific interventions may include developing a personalized delirium care plan, engaging the Hospital Elder Life Program (HELP), adjusting medications, identifying and treating underlying conditions, and reallocating staff resources to increase monitoring of the patient’s mental status.

Created by the hospital’s in-house data management team, the delirium predictive index is automatically refreshed every 24 hours, ensuring the care team has the most up to date information reflecting each patient’s changing health status.

“In 2026, we plan to expand the use of the delirium predictive index to all Hackensack Meridian Health hospitals,” said Dr. Parulekar. “We are also looking forward to publishing our findings and sharing our best practices with our geriatric medicine colleagues across the nation.”

Learn more about innovative geriatric care at Hackensack University Medical Center.