Measuring unfinished nursing care in patients with or at risk for delirium: a development and Delphi study | Synapse
March 13, 2026Open Access
Measuring unfinished nursing care in patients with or at risk for delirium: a development and Delphi study
Key Points
To develop a tool for measuring unfinished nursing care (UNC) specifically in patients at risk for or with delirium.
Conducted a Delphi study to gather expert opinions on UNC.
Developed the Unfinished Nursing Care Scale for use in clinical settings.
Analyzed data to identify care gaps and decision-making improvement strategies.
Identified specific reasons for unfinished nursing care related to delirium.
Demonstrated potential for improved patient safety and care priorities through the new tool.
Highlighted significant gaps in nursing care provision for at-risk patients.
Abstract
The UNCSD measures UNC and its reasons among patients at risk of or with delirium. Its use helps nurses identify gaps in care, improve decision-making, define care priorities, and ensure patient safety.