Delirium in Intensive Care After Heart Surgery and the Possible Benefits of a Forest Environment

Postoperative delirium occurs significantly in intensive care units (ICUs) following cardiac surgery.

• Circadian rhythm disruption is linked to a higher risk of delirium in ICU patients.
• Sleep disturbances may contribute to the development of postoperative delirium.
• ICU environments typically lack natural cues that help regulate circadian rhythms.
• The absence of these cues could worsen circadian misalignment, potentially increasing delirium risk.

Simplified