Council of Young Filipinx Americans in Medicine
Providing Culturally Competent Care for COVID-19 ICU Delirium:
A Case Report and Review
Presented by:
Christine Lomiguen, MD
Attending
Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine
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Christine Lomiguen, MD; Ivelys Rosete, OMS-II; and Justin Chin DO
Department of Pathology, Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine
Department of Primary Care, Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine
Department of Family Medicine, Lifelong Medical Care
Abstract:
Coronavirus Disease 19 (COVID-19) was declared a pandemic by the World Health Organization in March 2020. Caused by the SARS-CoV 2 virus, its high transmissibility required infected individuals to be placed in negative pressure isolation rooms when admitted to intensive care units (ICU). Studies have shown that limited social support can increase the risk of developing delirium during ICU stays. Minimal research exists on COVID-19 associated ICU delirium as hospitals and government organizations focus on combating equipment shortages and case surges. Here we present the case of a 64-year-old Filipino male with COVID-19 ICU delirium status post intubation and ventilation. His hospital course was complicated by the medical staff's assumption that the patient spoke Spanish and improved after being assigned a Tagalog-speaking nurse who facilitated family communication. This case highlights the importance of cultural competency and communication in the management of COVID-19 associated ICU delirium. In particular, Filipino cultural practices and their intersection with healthcare will be emphasized and related to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Keywords: cultural competency, COVID-19, ICU delirium