A nurse is assessing a client who has posttraumatic stress disorder following military combat. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?

Choice A rationale:

The client is experiencing signs of an allergic reaction or anaphylaxis, which can be life-threatening. The rapid response team should be called to provide immediate medical assistance.

Choice B rationale:

Intubation is not the immediate priority. Addressing the allergic reaction and ensuring the client's airway, breathing, and circulation are the first steps.

Choice C rationale:

Obtaining an arterial blood gas (ABG) level is not the priority when the client is experiencing respiratory distress and facial swelling.

Choice D rationale:

Administering diphenhydramine may be part of the treatment plan, but the immediate priority is to call for emergency assistance to manage the allergic reaction.

Choice A rationale:

Agitation is a common manifestation of delirium, as the client experiences a disturbance in attention, awareness, and cognition. The client may become restless, irritable, or aggressive due to the altered mental state.

Choice B rationale:

Slow, flat speech is not a manifestation of delirium, but rather a sign of depression or dementia. Clients with delirium may have rapid, incoherent, or slurred speech, depending on the cause and severity of the condition.

Choice C rationale:

Visual hallucinations are another manifestation of delirium, as the client may perceive things that are not there or misinterpret sensory stimuli. The client may also have auditory or tactile hallucinations, which can contribute to the agitation and confusion.

Choice D rationale:

Confusion is a hallmark manifestation of delirium, as the client has difficulty with orientation, memory, and reasoning. The client may not recognize familiar people or places, or may have fluctuating levels of consciousness. The confusion may worsen at night or in low-light settings, which is known as sundowning syndrome.

Choice E rationale:

Rapid mood swings are also a manifestation of delirium, as the client may exhibit emotional lability, anxiety, depression, fear, or anger. The mood changes may be unpredictable and inappropriate to the situation.