Innovative delirium research conducted at NNSWLHD has been recognised by the federal government. The project was awarded a $1.3 million grant in the latest Partnership Projects round from the National Health and Medical Research Council.
Delirium is a common, frightening and costly hospital complication that causes confusion and negatively affects the health of older Australians and their family and carers.
The three-year project is led by Associate Professor Christina Aggar, Nursing and Midwifery Academic Conjoint at NNSWLHD and Southern Cross University and partners with family carers. It builds on a successful pilot of a delirium identification toolkit known as PREDICT (Prevention and Early Delirium Identification Carer Toolkit) at The Tweed Hospital.
The research collaboration involves Sunshine Coast, Canberra and Sydney universities, Hunter New England and Far West LHDs, Canberra and Metro North Health Services, peak carer and consumer organisations, and lived experience consumers.
Christina said “the project could drive systemic change in delirium management, enhancing patient outcomes and alleviating pressures on our healthcare system.
“It will test the performance of PREDICT under ‘real-world' conditions -- including the unique impact of this initiative on culturally and linguistically diverse carers and LGBTQ+ carers.”
In announcing the NHMRC grants, Ged Kearney, Federal Assistant Minister for Health and Aged Care said that “as a former nurse, I know just how important research can be for medical breakthroughs to support patients and families.”
NHMRC CEO Professor Steve Wesselingh added “projects that take an interdisciplinary and collaborative approach help us address the many intricacies associated with some of Australia’s greatest health challenges.”