The nurse is teaching nursing students about the risk factors for developing delirium in older adults. Which student statement indicates understanding of the risk factors of delirium?
"Age-related cognitive changes may lead to alterations in mental status."
Lack of rigorous exercise may lead to alterations in mental status."
"Decreased social interaction may lead to profound isolation and psychosis."
"Taking multiple medications may lead to adverse interactions or toxicity."
The Correct Answer is D
A. "Age-related cognitive changes may lead to alterations in mental status." Age-related cognitive changes, such as mild cognitive impairment, can increase the risk of delirium, but the statement is too general. Delirium is typically acute and caused by specific factors like medication, infection, or metabolic imbalances, not just normal age-related changes . Therefore, this choice is incorrect.
B. "Lack of rigorous exercise may lead to alterations in mental status." While lack of exercise can impact overall health and well-being, it is not a direct risk factor for delirium. Delirium is more closely associated with acute medical conditions, medication interactions, or environmental factors . Therefore, this choice is incorrect.
C. "Decreased social interaction may lead to profound isolation and psychosis." Decreased social interaction can lead to isolation and mental health issues like depression, but it is not a direct cause of delirium. Delirium typically results from acute physiological changes rather than social factors . Therefore, this choice is incorrect.
D. "Taking multiple medications may lead to adverse interactions or toxicity." Polypharmacy, or taking multiple medications, is a significant risk factor for delirium in older adults due to the potential for adverse drug interactions and toxicity. This can lead to acute changes in mental status characteristic of delirium . This choice is correct.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Ensuring that the client takes care of their ADLs to prevent dependence: While maintaining independence in activities of daily living (ADLs) is important, safety takes precedence because the client may not have the cognitive ability to perform ADLs safely.
B. Ensuring that the client environment is safe to prevent injury. Safety is the priority for clients with Alzheimer's disease due to their risk of confusion, disorientation, and falls. Creating a safe environment helps prevent accidents and injuries.
C. Ensuring that the client receives food they like to prevent anxiety: Providing familiar food can help reduce anxiety, but this is secondary to ensuring safety. The primary concern is to prevent injury in a client who may be disoriented or confused.
D. Ensuring that the client meets the other patients to prevent social isolation. While social interaction is beneficial, it is not the priority in the acute care setting for someone with Alzheimer's disease. The focus should first be on the client’s immediate safety and well-being.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Physical activity level: Physical activity is important for overall health and can have positive effects on mental health by reducing the risk of depression and cognitive decline. However, while it is a significant factor, it is not the most strongly associated factor with mental health in older adults compared to social isolation.
B. Financial status: Financial stability can impact access to healthcare and overall quality of life, but it is not the primary factor influencing mental health. While financial stress can contribute to mental health issues, social factors tend to have a more direct and profound impact.
C. Social isolation: Social isolation is a major risk factor for mental health problems in older adults, including depression, anxiety, and cognitive decline. Lack of social interaction can lead to feelings of loneliness and increase the risk of mental health disorders, making it the most critical factor to consider. This choice is correct.
D. Dietary habits: Good nutrition is essential for maintaining physical and mental health, and poor dietary habits can contribute to various health issues. However, social isolation has a more direct impact on mental health outcomes in older adults compared to diet alone.
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