PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to develop and test a scale for 
predicting POD in patients undergoing cerebrovascular surgery.
METHODS: The predictive scale for POD was composed of 32 items reflecting the 
strongest risk factors as determined by a literature review. The NEECHAM 
Confusion Scale determined POD onset and severity.
RESULTS: Delirium developed in 38 (31.1%) of the 122 patients in our sample. 
Logistic regression revealed the following risk factors: dehydration, age, 
disturbance of consciousness, underlying illness, and anxiety or depression. The 
final scale was weighted by referring to odds ratios. The area under the curve 
was 0.844 (95% CI=0.766-0.921). The possible total score on this scale was 20 
points. A cutoff score of 11 was set for risk of POD (patients scoring over 12 
were considered at higher risk). The median score was 8 (range: 4-9) in the 
non-delirium group and 13 (range: 9-16) in the delirium group (U=499.0; df=120; 
p<0.001). Scale scores were moderately correlated with delirium duration 
(ρ=0.532; p<0.001).
CONCLUSION: The present scale is a promising a tool for predicting POD but needs 
to be studied further.