Step 1: The Confusion Assessment Method (CAM) is a widely used bedside instrument and diagnostic algorithm designed specifically to detect delirium.
Step 2: Its algorithm rests on four cardinal features: acute onset with a fluctuating course, inattention, disorganized thinking, and altered level of consciousness. A diagnosis requires the first two plus either the third or the fourth, exactly the profile of delirium.
Step 3: The distractors are screened with other tools. Dementia is assessed with the MMSE or MoCA, depression with scales like PHQ-9 or the Hamilton depression scale, and schizophrenia with instruments such as the PANSS, none of which is the CAM.
Step 4: Therefore CAM is used for delirium, option b.