A nurse is collecting data from an older adult client who was admitted with heart failure. The nurse should report which of the following findings to the provider as an indication of delirium?

Demonstrates obsessive behaviors

Fluctuating level of orientation

Family report of gradual memory loss

Consistent state of depression

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is B

A.   Obsessive behaviors, such as repetitive actions or fixations on specific thoughts or tasks, can be indicative of delirium. Delirium often manifests with altered behavior patterns that are unusual for the individual, including obsessive or compulsive-like behaviors that are not typical of their baseline mental status. However, this is not specific to delirium.
B.   Fluctuating orientation, where the client is sometimes alert and oriented and at other times confused or disoriented, is a hallmark of delirium. Unlike dementia, which typically presents with a more steady decline in cognitive function, delirium is characterized by rapid changes in mental status over hours to days. This fluctuation is important to note as it strongly suggests delirium rather than other chronic cognitive impairments.
C.   Gradual memory loss reported by family members is more suggestive of chronic conditions such as dementia rather than delirium. Delirium, in contrast, is characterized by acute onset and fluctuating course rather than a gradual decline in cognitive abilities over time.
D.   Depression can coexist with delirium, but a consistent state of depression without acute changes in mental status is less indicative of delirium. Delirium is characterized by rapid changes in cognition and behavior rather than a persistent mood disorder. Therefore, while depression should be assessed and managed appropriately, it is not typically a sign of delirium unless there are acute changes in mental status accompanying it.

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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A. Adolescents who are preparing to leave home for college are generally more independent and have a higher level of verbal communication compared to younger children. They are less likely to be at high risk for physical abuse because they can potentially seek help or report abuse more readily.

B. School-age children typically have better verbal communication skills and may express their desires and feelings more clearly compared to younger children. They are generally less vulnerable to physical abuse compared to younger children who may not be able to communicate their experiences as effectively.
C. Preschoolers are at a higher risk for physical abuse compared to older children and adolescents. They are still developing verbal communication skills and may not be able to express their feelings or report abuse clearly. Their dependence on caregivers for basic needs and care also increases their vulnerability.
D. Toddlers, especially those with chronic health conditions like cystic fibrosis, are particularly vulnerable to physical abuse. Their young age, dependency on caregivers for basic needs, limited verbal communication skills, and potential health challenges increase their risk. Caregivers may feel overwhelmed or stressed by the child's condition, which could potentially contribute to abusive behaviors.

A. "You should have asked for help." B. "Let's talk about how you were feeling." C. "I think you are experiencing guilt." D. "Everyone gets discouraged sometimes."

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A. This response could come across as blaming or judgmental. It implies that the client made a mistake by not seeking help, which can exacerbate feelings of guilt or shame. It does not promote an open dialogue or supportive environment.
B. This response demonstrates empathy and a willingness to understand the client's emotional state leading up to the suicide attempt. It encourages open communication about the client's feelings and experiences, which is crucial for assessment and intervention planning.
C. This response suggests that the nurse is making assumptions about the client's emotions without allowing the client to express themselves fully. While guilt may be a common emotion after a suicide attempt, it's important for the nurse to first listen to the client's own description of their feelings.
D. This response minimizes the seriousness of the client's experience and emotions. It may invalidate the client's feelings of distress or despair that led to the suicide attempt. Such a response does not acknowledge the gravity of the situation or provide the necessary support.

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A nurse is collecting data from an older adult client who was admitted with heart failure. The nurse should report which of the following findings to the provider as an indication of delirium?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

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Explanation

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