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The primary target group for delirium screening using the Confusion Assessment Method for the Intensive Care Unit (CAM-ICU) is critically ill patients. Delirium is a common and serious complication in this patient population, characterized by acute confusion, fluctuating levels of consciousness, and disturbed attention. The unique environment of the ICU, where patients may be experiencing severe illness, sedation, or mechanical ventilation, increases their risk for developing delirium. The CAM-ICU is designed specifically to identify delirium in such settings, enabling early detection and management, which is crucial for improving outcomes.

While post-operative patients may also be at risk for delirium, especially those undergoing major surgeries or with complicated recovery processes, the CAM-ICU is primarily used in critically ill patients because they are often more acutely affected by factors that can lead to delirium, such as medications, metabolic disturbances, and underlying physiological stress.

Patients with chronic illnesses, while they may have an increased risk for cognitive disturbances, are not the primary focus of CAM-ICU monitoring. Similarly, pediatric patients have their own specific assessment tools for delirium, thus CAM-ICU is not tailored to that demographic. Therefore, the use of CAM-ICU is primarily aimed