Delirium occurs in response to all the following stressors except
Electrolyte imbalance
Head trauma
Depression
Infection
The Correct Answer is C
A. Electrolyte imbalance is a common stressor that can trigger delirium. Changes in electrolyte levels, such as sodium or calcium, can lead to confusion, agitation, and altered mental status.
B. Head trauma can also lead to delirium, especially if the injury affects the brain's function or causes swelling or bleeding that impacts cognition and awareness.
C. Depression is typically not a direct cause of delirium. While depression can lead to cognitive symptoms like memory problems and slowed thinking, it is not usually associated with the acute confusion and fluctuating consciousness seen in delirium. Delirium is typically caused by physical stressors, such as illness or injury, rather than psychological conditions like depression.
D. Infection is a common trigger for delirium, particularly in older adults or those with weakened immune systems. Infections like urinary tract infections or pneumonia can lead to acute confusion, agitation, and changes in mental status.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Delirium is an acute, often sudden onset of confusion and altered mental status, usually caused by an underlying medical condition or medication. It tends to fluctuate and is typically reversible — not consistent with the progressive and long-term decline described.
B. Amnesia refers specifically to memory loss, which can be caused by trauma, disease, or psychological factors, but it does not encompass the broader cognitive decline (such as impaired judgment, language, and executive function) seen in dementia.
C. Dementia is characterized by a gradual and progressive decline in memory, thinking, and reasoning skills over time. The two-year progression described in the question is typical of dementia, especially in older adults.
D. Parkinson’s disease is a neurodegenerative disorder primarily affecting movement.While it can be associated with dementia in later stages, the primary symptoms early on are related to motor function (e.g., tremors, rigidity), not memory and cognition.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Librium (chlordiazepoxide) is a benzodiazepine commonly used to manage alcohol withdrawal symptoms, such as agitation, tremors, and seizures.
B. Valium (diazepam) is another benzodiazepine frequently used for alcohol withdrawal due to its long half-life and calming effects.
C. Ativan (lorazepam) is also used in alcohol withdrawal treatment, especially for patients with liver issues, as it has a shorter half-life and is metabolized differently than other benzodiazepines.
D. Zoloft (sertraline) is an SSRI antidepressant, not used for managing acute alcohol withdrawal. While it may be prescribed later for co-occurring depression or anxiety, it is not appropriate for immediate withdrawal management.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.