A client experiencing delirium will most likely have:
An acute medical condition
Progressive deficits in memory of condition
Plaques found on the outside of dead and damaged neurons
Progressive nerve degeneration
The Correct Answer is A
A. An acute medical condition is the most likely cause of delirium. Delirium is typically a temporary, acute confusional state that results from an underlying medical condition, such as infection (e.g., urinary tract infections), dehydration, medications, or metabolic imbalances. Delirium is often reversible once the underlying cause is treated.
B. Progressive deficits in memory of condition refers to conditions like Alzheimer's disease or other types of dementia, where memory loss is gradual and progressive over time. This is not characteristic of delirium, which usually occurs suddenly and may involve a fluctuating course of confusion.
C. Plaques found on the outside of dead and damaged neurons is characteristic of Alzheimer's disease and certain other neurodegenerative disorders. These plaques, made up of amyloid-beta protein, are not associated with delirium.
D. Progressive nerve degeneration describes the pathophysiology of chronic conditions like Alzheimer's disease or Parkinson's disease, where there is a gradual decline in cognitive function due to nerve degeneration. Delirium is an acute condition and does not involve the progressive degeneration seen in these diseases.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. "I think you need more medication. I will be right back." While medication is an important aspect of managing Alzheimer's disease, this response dismisses the patient's feelings and does not address the emotional content of the statement. The goal is to engage with the patient in a compassionate way, not to assume the medication is the solution.
B. "Your wife passed away last year. Who's your date?" This response may be truthful, but it could be very distressing for the patient. Alzheimer's disease often causes memory loss and confusion, so correcting the patient in this blunt manner may cause unnecessary emotional distress or frustration.
C. "Today is (today's date). Tell me about the other dances you've been to." This is the most appropriate response. It gently redirects the patient to reality by providing the correct date, but it also shows empathy and invites the patient to share pleasant memories. This approach validates the patient's emotions and encourages conversation, which is beneficial for maintaining dignity and engaging the patient in meaningful dialogue.
D. "You're confused. Today is not Valentine's Day." This response may make the patient feel invalidated or upset. Alzheimer's disease often causes confusion and disorientation, so harshly correcting the patient can lead to increased agitation and emotional distress.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. "I will help you leave this relationship" is not an appropriate response because it assumes the nurse knows what is best for the patient and does not respect her autonomy or immediate choices. The patient has clearly stated she does not want to leave the relationship at this time.
B. "You need to report your husband to the police" is an invasive and potentially coercive statement. While reporting abuse is important, the nurse should provide information and support, not force actions the patient may not be ready to take. Pressuring her could escalate the situation and harm the patient’s trust in healthcare providers.
C. "Let's develop a safety plan for repeated violence" is the most supportive and patient-centered response. It acknowledges the reality of the abuse while offering a non-judgmental, practical approach to help her stay safe. The nurse is giving the patient the option to make informed decisions about her safety, which is empowering.
D. "Here is a list of services that can help you" is helpful, but it lacks the active engagement the patient may need. Developing a personalized safety plan is more immediate and relevant for someone experiencing ongoing abuse.
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