Low molecular weight heparin in COVID-19 patients prevents delirium and shortens hospitalization.

ABSTRACT: BACKGROUND:COVID-19 patients present with delirium during their hospitalization. AIMS:To assess the incidence of delirium in hospitalized COVID-19 patients and analyze the possible association with demographic, clinical, laboratory, and pharmacological factors. METHODS:COVID-19 patients were assessed for clinical signs of delirium and administered the assessment test for delirium and cognitive impairment (4AT) and the Confusion Assessment Method for the Intensive Care Unit (CAM-ICU) scales. RESULTS:Out of the 56 patients of our cohort, 14 (25.0%) experienced delirium. The use of low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) (enoxaparin 1 mg/kg/daily) was less frequent in patients with delirium (p = 0.004) and was accompanied by lower C reactive protein (CRP) levels (p = 0.006). DISCUSSION:The use of LMWH was associated with absence of delirium, independently of comorbidities and age. CONCLUSIONS:The use of LMWH may help preventing the occurrence of delirium in COVID-19 patients, with possible reduction of length of stay in the hospital and sequelae.

SUBMITTER: D'Ardes D 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7664586 | biostudies-literature | 2020 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature