A nurse is teaching a client about biofeedback therapy. Which of the following client statements indicates an understanding of the teaching?

Choice A reason: This statement reflects a misunderstanding of the situation. Delirium is an acute, reversible condition often triggered by infections such as urinary tract infections. Long-term care placement is not automatically indicated once delirium resolves, especially since the client was living independently prior to hospitalization. Planning for long-term care prematurely assumes permanent cognitive decline, which is not consistent with delirium’s clinical course.

Choice B reason: Respite care is designed to provide temporary relief for caregivers of individuals with chronic conditions or long-term care needs. Since the client was living independently before admission and delirium is expected to resolve after treatment of the infection, respite care is not necessary at this point. This statement suggests the adult child believes ongoing caregiver support will be required, which is inaccurate for this clinical scenario.

Choice C reason: This statement demonstrates accurate understanding. Delirium is characterized by acute onset of confusion, disorientation, and fluctuating mental status, often secondary to an underlying medical condition such as infection. Once the infection is treated and the acute illness resolves, the delirium typically subsides, and the client’s baseline cognitive function returns. Recognizing that the confusion is temporary and reversible shows that the teaching has been effective.

Choice D reason: Obtaining a permanent identification bracelet is more appropriate for clients with chronic, progressive cognitive disorders such as dementia or Alzheimer’s disease, where confusion and wandering are persistent risks. Since delirium is reversible and not a permanent condition, this intervention is unnecessary. This statement reflects a misunderstanding of the difference between delirium and dementia.

Choice A reason:
Alcohol withdrawal is primarily associated with central nervous system hyperexcitability due to abrupt cessation of a depressant substance. Expected findings include tremors, diaphoresis, tachycardia, hypertension, anxiety, insomnia, nausea, vomiting, seizures, and in severe cases delirium tremens characterized by confusion, hallucinations, and autonomic instability. Pupillary dilation, yawning, rhinorrhea, and muscle cramps are not hallmark features of alcohol withdrawal, making this option inconsistent with the client’s presentation.

Choice B reason:
Heroin is an opioid, and opioid withdrawal produces a predictable cluster of symptoms related to rebound autonomic and neuromuscular hyperactivity. Classic manifestations include yawning, lacrimation, rhinorrhea, pupillary dilation (mydriasis), piloerection, muscle and bone pain, abdominal cramping, diarrhea, nausea, and restlessness. Muscle cramps and flu-like symptoms are particularly characteristic. Although opioid withdrawal is extremely uncomfortable, it is typically not life-threatening. The client’s symptoms align precisely with opioid withdrawal, making this the correct answer.

Choice C reason:
Cannabis withdrawal is generally mild and primarily psychological rather than severe physical withdrawal. Common findings include irritability, anxiety, insomnia, decreased appetite, restlessness, depressed mood, and headache. Autonomic signs such as rhinorrhea, yawning, pupillary dilation, and muscle cramps are not typical features of cannabis withdrawal, which rules out this option.

Choice D reason:
Cocaine withdrawal is characterized by a “crash” phase due to depletion of dopamine and other neurotransmitters. Expected manifestations include fatigue, hypersomnia, increased appetite, depression, anxiety, vivid dreams, and psychomotor retardation. Physical signs such as yawning, rhinorrhea, muscle cramps, and pupillary dilation are not characteristic of cocaine withdrawal. Therefore, this option does not match the client’s symptoms.