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.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Physical activity. Physical activity levels generally decline with age due to factors like reduced mobility, health issues, and decreased energy levels.
B. Cognition. Cognitive function can decline with age, particularly in areas such as memory, processing speed, and executive function.
C. Sexuality. While sexual function may change with age, interest in and desire for sexual activity can remain relatively stable. Sexuality is often minimally affected compared to other areas like physical activity and cognition.
D. Productivity. Productivity may decline with age due to retirement, physical limitations, or health issues, although it can vary greatly among individuals.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Blepharitis is an inflammation of the eyelid margins, not related to lens elasticity.
B. Nearsightedness (myopia) is difficulty seeing distant objects, not typically age-related.
C. Cataracts involve clouding of the lens, not the loss of elasticity.
D. Presbyopia is the age-related loss of lens elasticity, resulting in difficulty focusing on close objects.
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