Knowledge of Delirium among ICU Nurses in Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Assessment

Delirium is a common yet frequently underrecognized complication in Intensive Care Units (ICUs), where nurses play a key role in early detection and intervention. This study assessed ICU nurses’ knowledge of delirium across five domains and examined associated demographic and professional factors.

A cross-sectional study was conducted between January and February 2025 among the entire eligible population of ICU nurses (n = 123) across four adult ICUs in Saudi Arabia. Knowledge was assessed using an adapted 35-item Delirium Knowledge Questionnaire, with items grouped into five reporting domains. Descriptive statistics, independent-samples t-tests, and one-way analysis of variance were used.

The mean total knowledge score was 25.4 ± 4.2 (72.6%). Clinical Features had the highest mean percentage score (76.7%), followed by General Knowledge (75.7%), whereas Delirium Management had the lowest score (60.0%). Prior delirium training was associated with higher total knowledge scores (MD = 4.10, 95% CI: 2.32–5.88; Cohen’s d = 0.93; p < 0.001). ICU experience was also associated with total knowledge scores (p = 0.032; η² = 0.086).

Overall, knowledge of delirium was moderate to high, whereas management-related knowledge was comparatively lower. The findings identify management as a priority area for educational reinforcement. Associations involving ICU experience should be interpreted with caution because some subgroups were small.

ICU nurses demonstrated moderate-to-high knowledge of delirium, with a notable gap in management-related content. Prior training and ICU experience were associated with higher knowledge scores, supporting the need for targeted delirium education and standardized assessment practices.