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Printed on 4/21/2026
For informational purposes only. This is not medical advice.
The Delirium Observation Screening Scale (DOSS) is a bedside observation tool typically completed by nursing staff to detect delirium features during routine care. Total score ranges 0-13; a score of 3 or higher is commonly used as a positive delirium signal requiring formal evaluation.
Formula: DOSS total is the summed observation score across checklist items, range 0-13.
DOSS has validation evidence in inpatient populations as a practical nurse-administered delirium screen.
Higher DOSS totals indicate greater delirium signal and support urgent confirmatory assessment.
Use in hospitalized or institutional settings for serial delirium screening during routine nursing observation.
Observer-dependent scoring and overlapping symptoms (e.g., dementia, sedation) can affect specificity.
For related assessments, see Nu-DESC, 4AT and CAM Delirium Screen.
Disclaimer: This tool is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider with questions about your health.
A brief 5-item nursing delirium screen (0-10) commonly using >=2 as a positive threshold.
GeriatricsRapid delirium screening tool scored 0-12; scores of 4 or more suggest possible delirium.
GeriatricsScreen for delirium using the CAM (Confusion Assessment Method). Gold standard with ~94% sensitivity and ~89% specificity. Requires acute onset + inattention, plus disorganized thinking or altered consciousness.
GeriatricsA 2-item ultra-brief delirium screen where any failed item suggests possible delirium.