A nurse is reinforcing teaching about delirium with the caregiver of a client. Which of the following information should the nurse include?
individuals who have this disorder have a flat affect."
This disorder is characterized by a sudden onset of mental confusion
individuals who have this disorder speak at a slow pace."
This disorder is not reversible."
The Correct Answer is B
A) "Individuals who have this disorder have a flat affect.": A flat affect, which refers to a lack of emotional expression, is more characteristic of conditions like depression or schizophrenia rather than delirium. Delirium typically involves fluctuating levels of consciousness, confusion, and altered attention, but a flat affect is not a defining feature.
B) "This disorder is characterized by a sudden onset of mental confusion.": This statement is correct. Delirium is characterized by a rapid onset of symptoms, including confusion, disorientation, and changes in cognition. The acute nature of delirium distinguishes it from other conditions like dementia, which develops gradually over time.
C) "Individuals who have this disorder speak at a slow pace.": While some individuals with delirium may speak slowly due to confusion or disorientation, this is not a defining characteristic of the disorder. Delirium can cause a variety of speech patterns, including rambling, incoherence, or even rapid speech depending on the individual’s cognitive state.
D) "This disorder is not reversible.": This statement is incorrect. Delirium is typically reversible if the underlying cause (such as infection, dehydration, or medication side effects) is identified and treated. Unlike progressive disorders like dementia, delirium can often be resolved with appropriate medical intervention.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A) Arterial blood gases: Arterial blood gas (ABG) tests are typically used to assess respiratory and metabolic function, including the balance of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the blood. While important in many clinical situations, ABGs are not specifically relevant for monitoring a client on levothyroxine, as it does not directly affect gas exchange or acid-base balance.
B) Thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH): TSH is the most important laboratory test to monitor in a client taking levothyroxine, as this medication is used to replace or supplement thyroid hormone levels. Levothyroxine directly affects thyroid hormone levels in the body, so monitoring TSH levels is essential for determining whether the medication dosage needs to be adjusted. Elevated TSH levels may indicate that the dose is too low, while low levels may suggest an overdose.
C) Prothrombin time: Prothrombin time (PT) is used to assess blood clotting and coagulation status. While certain thyroid conditions can influence coagulation, PT is not a routine test to monitor in clients on levothyroxine therapy unless there are specific concerns related to bleeding or clotting. It is not the most relevant test for monitoring thyroid function in this context.
D) Blood urea nitrogen (BUN): Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels reflect kidney function and hydration status. While kidney function is always important to monitor, BUN is not specifically used to assess the effects of levothyroxine therapy. It would not provide direct information regarding the effectiveness of the medication or the thyroid status of the client.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A) Impetigo contagiosa: Impetigo contagiosa is a bacterial skin infection caused by either Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes. While it is contagious, it is not typically required to be reported to the state health department, as it is not considered a high-priority communicable disease that mandates immediate reporting.
B) Sarcoptes scabiei: Scabies, caused by the mite Sarcoptes scabiei, is a contagious parasitic skin infection. Although scabies can be easily spread, it is generally not a reportable disease to the state health department unless there is an outbreak in a specific setting, such as a healthcare facility or school.
C) Neisseria gonorrhoeae: Neisseria gonorrhoeae, the bacterium that causes gonorrhea, is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) that is required by law to be reported to the state health department. Gonorrhea is a notifiable disease because of its potential for rapid transmission, complications, and its increasing resistance to antibiotics. Early reporting helps control the spread and provides opportunities for public health interventions.
D) Human papillomavirus (HPV): Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a viral infection that is not required to be reported to the state health department. While HPV is the most common STI and can lead to cancers such as cervical cancer, it is not mandated for reporting as an individual infection. However, certain types of HPV-related cancers may be tracked through cancer registries.
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