Association between the confusion assessment method for the intensive care unit (CAM-ICU) and prolonged mechanical ventilation following major cardiac surgery

An early postoperative positive CAM-ICU assessment was associated with higher risks of PMV, reintubation, ICU readmission, and prolonged ICU stay after major cardiac surgery. Routine CAM-ICU screening may help identify patients at risk of prolonged ventilation and enable timely, targeted interventions to improve postoperative respiratory recovery.