Which of the following is NOT a delirium risk factor?

Which of the following is NOT a delirium risk factor?

• A. Regular exercise
• B. Infection/sepsis
• C. Anemia
• D. Hypotension

Answer: (A)

Regular exercise tends to protect against delirium rather than raise the risk. Delirium in the ICU is commonly driven by factors like infection or sepsis (which triggers inflammation and neurotransmitter disturbances), anemia (reduced oxygen-carrying capacity to the brain), and hypotension (decreased cerebral perfusion). Engaging in regular physical activity improves cerebral blood flow, reduces systemic inflammation, supports sleep quality, and preserves cognitive function, all of which help lower delirium risk. Therefore, the option describing regular exercise is not a delirium risk factor, while infection/sepsis, anemia, and hypotension are.

Regular exercise tends to protect against delirium rather than raise the risk. Delirium in the ICU is commonly driven by factors like infection or sepsis (which triggers inflammation and neurotransmitter disturbances), anemia (reduced oxygen-carrying capacity to the brain), and hypotension (decreased cerebral perfusion). Engaging in regular physical activity improves cerebral blood flow, reduces systemic inflammation, supports sleep quality, and preserves cognitive function, all of which help lower delirium risk. Therefore, the option describing regular exercise is not a delirium risk factor, while infection/sepsis, anemia, and hypotension are.