The nurse is providing care for an elderly client who has cognitive changes. The nurse recognizes that which statement regarding dementia and delirium is true?
Both are accompanied by changes in level of consciousness.
Memory is affected equally in both diseases.
Only delirium is reversible.
The progression of both diseases is slow.
The Correct Answer is C
C. Delirium is often reversible once the underlying cause is identified and treated (e.g., correcting electrolyte imbalances, managing infections, discontinuing medications contributing to delirium). With appropriate intervention, the mental status can improve, and the individual can return to their baseline cognitive function.
A. Dementia, on the other hand, is a chronic, progressive syndrome that primarily affects memory, thinking, behavior, and the ability to perform everyday activities. It does not typically cause acute changes in consciousness.
B. Memory impairment is a hallmark feature of dementia, especially in the early stages. In contrast, delirium primarily affects attention, awareness, and cognition acutely, with memory impairment being variable and not a defining feature.
D. Delirium develops rapidly, often over hours to days, in response to an acute medical condition, medication change, or other factors. It is characterized by a fluctuating course and can resolve once the underlying cause is managed.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
B. Activating a code blue or the facility's emergency response system will bring immediate assistance and resources to the client's bedside. This is crucial to initiate prompt resuscitative measures if indicated and to involve additional healthcare providers in the management of the emergency.
A. While it might be appropriate in some situations to provide privacy or support to the partner, in this urgent scenario where the client is unresponsive and not breathing, the priority should be immediate assessment and intervention for the client's condition.
C. While notifying the physician is important, especially to inform them of the client's condition and potentially discuss the DNR status, it is not the most immediate action in this urgent situation where the client is unresponsive and not breathing. Direct intervention and assessment are needed first.
D. Asking the partner to make a DNR decision immediately is not appropriate as the first action in this scenario. It is crucial to focus first on the client's immediate needs for assessment and potentially resuscitative measures if indicated. The discussion about the DNR order should occur in a timely manner but is secondary to addressing the client's current medical emergency.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
D. This statement exemplifies the ethical principle of fidelity, also known as faithfulness or commitment. Fidelity involves keeping promises, being reliable, and fulfilling commitments made to patients. By returning promptly with the pain medication as promised, the nurse demonstrates fidelity by honoring their commitment to the patient's care and comfort.
A. This statement reflects the ethical principle of justice, which emphasizes fairness and equality in treatment for all patients. Justice ensures that resources and treatments are distributed fairly among individuals.
B This statement demonstrates the ethical principle of nonmaleficence, which focuses on preventing harm and minimizing risks to patients. It emphasizes the nurse's commitment to avoiding harm or injury to the patient.
C. This statement relates to truth-telling or veracity, which involves providing honest and accurate information to patients about their care, procedures, and potential outcomes. It reflects transparency and respect for patient autonomy.
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