Which item is NOT part of the CM-ICU delirium assessment categories?

Which item is NOT part of the CM-ICU delirium assessment categories?

• A. Acute change or Fluctuating Course of Mental Status
• B. Inattention
• C. Pain level
• D. Disorganized thinking

Answer: (C)

CM-ICU delirium assessment centers on four features: acute onset or fluctuating course, inattention, altered level of consciousness, and disorganized thinking. Pain level is not part of these delirium criteria; it’s a separate domain used for analgesia assessment and management. A positive delirium screen (CAM-ICU) requires both acute onset/fluctuating course and inattention, plus either altered consciousness or disorganized thinking. Therefore, pain level does not belong to the delirium assessment categories, making it the correct choice for what is NOT part of them.

CM-ICU delirium assessment centers on four features: acute onset or fluctuating course, inattention, altered level of consciousness, and disorganized thinking. Pain level is not part of these delirium criteria; it’s a separate domain used for analgesia assessment and management. A positive delirium screen (CAM-ICU) requires both acute onset/fluctuating course and inattention, plus either altered consciousness or disorganized thinking. Therefore, pain level does not belong to the delirium assessment categories, making it the correct choice for what is NOT part of them.