A nurse is caring for an older adult who lives in a long-term care facility on the Alzheimer unit. Every evening around 5:00 p.m., the resident becomes increasingly agitated and more confused, a state that lasts throughout the evening. The nurse recognizes this behaviour as:
personality disorder.
dementia.
delirium.
sundowning syndrome.
The Correct Answer is D
A. Personality disorder. Personality disorders are long-term patterns of behaviour and inner experiences that deviate significantly from the expectations of the individual's culture. The described behaviour is a specific pattern related to the time of day, not indicative of a personality disorder.
B. Dementia. While dementia is the underlying condition, the specific worsening of symptoms in the evening is known as sundowning syndrome. Dementia alone does not specify the time-related pattern of increased confusion and agitation.
C. Delirium. Delirium is an acute, often sudden change in cognition and attention, usually caused by an underlying medical condition or substance use. The described behavior follows a regular daily pattern, indicating a different issue.
D. Sundowning syndrome. Sundowning syndrome refers to increased confusion and agitation in the late afternoon and evening, commonly seen in individuals with Alzheimer's disease or other forms of dementia.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Chemical imbalance: Chemical imbalances are more commonly associated with mood disorders and not specifically with organic dementia.
B. Cerebral disease: Dementia is primarily due to changes in brain structure or function, such as those seen in Alzheimer’s disease or other neurodegenerative conditions.
C. Emotional problems: Emotional problems may contribute to other mental health issues but are not the primary cause of dementia.
D. Circulatory impairment: While circulatory problems can contribute to certain types of cognitive impairment, dementia itself is directly related to cerebral disease.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Heart attacks due to increased effort to ambulate: While heart attacks are a concern, they are not directly related to musculoskeletal changes and posture.
B. Falls related to posture changes: Age-related changes such as decreased muscle mass and changes in posture increase the risk of falls.
C. Fractures due to poor uptake of calcium: While decreased calcium absorption can lead to fractures, age-related musculoskeletal changes like posture and muscle weakness are more directly linked to fall risk.
D. Respiratory failure due to kyphosis: Kyphosis can impact respiratory function, but the most direct risk from musculoskeletal changes in older adults is falls.
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