A 79-year-old white man tells a visiting nurse, "I've been feeling sad lately. My family and friends are all dead. My money is running out, and my health is failing How should the nurse analyze this comment?

A. Agitation is a common symptom of hyperactive delirium. This state often involves excessive restlessness, combativeness, or irritability.
B. Sluggishness is more indicative of hypoactive delirium, where the patient is typically less responsive, lethargic, and withdrawn. It is not characteristic of the hyperactive form of delirium, which involves heightened activity and increased arousal.
C. Hallucination is a typical symptom of hyperactive delirium. Patients may experience visual or auditory hallucinations, which can increase agitation and confusion.
D. Restlessness is another hallmark symptom of hyperactive delirium, often leading to pacing, inability to stay still, and increased anxiety.

A. Delegate visiting family members to watch delirious patient is not a recommended safety guideline. While family members can offer support, they are not trained to monitor and manage the safety of a patient with delirium. This could also place undue stress on the family and compromise patient care.
B. Never leave a patient in acute delirium alone is a key safety guideline. Patients with delirium are at a higher risk for falls, injury, and disorientation. Close supervision is necessary to ensure their safety.
C. Use trained sitters to help with safety is a best practice. Trained sitters can ensure that the delirious patient remains safe and prevent them from wandering, falling, or becoming more agitated.
D. Use effective engagement techniques like reorientation and distraction are important in managing delirium. These techniques help to calm the patient, reduce confusion, and improve their comfort level.