A nurse is reinforcing teaching about delirium with the caregiver of a client. Which of the following information should the nurse include?

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.

A) Initiate droplet precautions: Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is primarily spread through contact with respiratory secretions, and droplet precautions are essential to prevent transmission. While RSV is commonly transmitted via direct contact or droplets, additional precautions like contact precautions may also be required, but droplet precautions should definitely be initiated as part of standard care to prevent the spread of the virus to others.

B) Monitor the preschooler’s urine for protein: Monitoring the urine for protein is not a standard action related to RSV. RSV is a respiratory virus, and its primary symptoms and complications involve the respiratory system, such as difficulty breathing, wheezing, or respiratory distress. There is no direct link between RSV and proteinuria, so this action is not necessary.

C) Administer fluconazole to the preschooler: Fluconazole is an antifungal medication, and it is not used to treat respiratory syncytial virus. RSV is a viral infection, so antiviral medications or supportive care like oxygen therapy, hydration, and possibly bronchodilators may be more appropriate. Fluconazole would not be appropriate for treating a viral infection like RSV.

D) Request an x-ray of the preschooler’s neck: An x-ray of the neck is generally not indicated for RSV unless there is a specific concern about airway obstruction or another condition like croup, which may present with symptoms similar to RSV. RSV primarily affects the lower respiratory tract, leading to symptoms like wheezing, cough, and difficulty breathing, not necessarily requiring a neck x-ray.