A nurse on a pediatric unit is caring for a toddler who has poor dietary intake. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?

A. Acute onset of confusion. Dementia is a progressive, chronic condition that develops gradually over time. An acute onset of confusion is more characteristic of delirium, which is a sudden, reversible condition often caused by infections, metabolic imbalances, or medications.
B. Illusions. While individuals with dementia may experience visual misperceptions, true illusions—misinterpretations of real external stimuli—are more commonly associated with delirium or psychiatric disorders. Dementia more often leads to problems with recognition (agnosia) rather than distorted perception.
C. Memory loss that disrupts ADLs. Dementia is characterized by progressive cognitive decline, including memory impairment severe enough to interfere with daily activities such as managing finances, preparing meals, or personal hygiene. As the disease progresses, individuals may struggle with problem-solving, language, and recognizing familiar people or places.
D. Catatonia. Catatonia is a state of motor dysfunction, often seen in severe psychiatric disorders like schizophrenia. While individuals with advanced dementia may become withdrawn or exhibit reduced movement, true catatonia, which involves stupor or repetitive movements, is not a hallmark of dementia.

A. Place a pillow under the client's head. Placing a pillow under the client's head is appropriate as it helps protect the client's head from injury during the seizure. Providing cushioning can reduce the risk of head trauma, which is a common concern during seizures.
B. Gently restrain the client's arms. Gently restraining the client's arms is not recommended during a seizure, as it can lead to injury. Restraining movements can also increase the risk of injury to both the client and the caregiver. Instead, the nurse should allow the seizure to progress without interference.
C. Administer a muscle relaxant. Administering a muscle relaxant is not appropriate during a seizure. The nurse should not medicate the client until the seizure has stopped and the healthcare provider has assessed the situation. Immediate management focuses on safety rather than medication.
D. Insert a tongue blade. Inserting a tongue blade or any object into the client's mouth is dangerous and not recommended. This can cause oral injury, broken teeth, or airway obstruction. The nurse should ensure the area is clear of hazards and allow the seizure to occur without attempting to prevent movements.