Which client exhibits signs and symptoms of delirium and not dementia or depression?

The onset is sudden and acute

The client's ability to perform ADLs is intact.

The cognitive changes are hidden by the client

The client demonstrates apathetic demeanor or flat affect

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is A

A.   Delirium is characterized by a sudden onset of confusion and changes in mental status, often occurring over a short period (hours to days). This contrasts with dementia, which has a gradual onset and progressive decline in cognitive function over months or years.
B.   In delirium, the ability to perform activities of daily living (ADLs) is often affected because cognitive and attentional impairments can interfere with daily functioning. In contrast, early stages of dementia may still allow for relatively intact ADLs, and in depression, ADLs might be affected due to lack of motivation or energy rather than cognitive impairment.
C.   Delirium typically involves visible, pronounced cognitive changes and fluctuating levels of awareness and attention. Clients with delirium usually exhibit overt confusion and disorientation. In contrast, in dementia, cognitive changes are progressive and become more apparent over time.
D.   An apathetic demeanor or flat affect is more commonly associated with depression, where mood disturbances such as sadness, lack of motivation, and diminished emotional expression are prevalent. Dementia might also involve changes in affect, but apathy and flat affect are not distinguishing features of delirium.

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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A. This is not a common symptom of an anxiety attack, although severe stress can sometimes lead to risky behaviors.
B. Decreased perceptions is less characteristic of anxiety attacks and are not typically used as indicators of severity
C. Increased motivation is less characteristic of anxiety attacks and are not typically used as indicators of severity
D. This overwhelming fear can manifest physically in various ways, including but not limited to, increased heart rate, sweating, trembling, shortness of breath, and a feeling of loss of control

A. "Dementia is often caused by a sudden change in environment." B. “The manifestations of dementia are progressive and irreversible." C. “Dementia is characterized by a sudden onset over a few hours or days." D. "An altered level of consciousness is associated with dementia."

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A. Dementia is not typically caused by sudden environmental changes. Instead, it is a chronic condition that develops gradually over time due to neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease, vascular dementia, or Lewy body dementia.
B. Dementia is characterized by a gradual decline in cognitive function, including memory, thinking, and reasoning skills. The progression of dementia is typically slow and leads to worsening symptoms over time. Currently, most types of dementia are considered irreversible, meaning that the damage to the brain is not reversible and the condition will continue to progress.
C. Dementia is a progressive condition that develops gradually, often over months or years. It is not characterized by a sudden onset. Sudden onset of cognitive symptoms is more indicative of delirium, which can be caused by acute medical conditions or other factors.
D. Dementia generally does not involve an altered level of consciousness. Instead, it primarily affects cognitive functions such as memory, reasoning, and orientation while consciousness remains clear.

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Which client exhibits signs and symptoms of delirium and not dementia or depression?

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