Which of the following symptoms is most characteristic of nocturnal delirium?
Progressive loss of language skills
Gradual memory decline
Acute onset of confusion during the evening hours
Persistent depressive symptoms
The Correct Answer is C
A. Progressive loss of language skills is more characteristic of dementia, particularly language-predominant types like primary progressive aphasia, rather than nocturnal delirium. It develops gradually over months to years, not acutely.
B. Gradual memory decline is also a hallmark of dementia, such as Alzheimer’s disease, where cognitive deficits evolve slowly over time. This is not consistent with the acute and fluctuating nature of delirium.
C. Acute onset of confusion during the evening hours is correct. nocturnal delirium, often called sundowning, is characterized by sudden confusion, agitation, or disorientation that occurs primarily in the late afternoon or evening. This symptom is acute and fluctuates, distinguishing it from the gradual cognitive decline seen in dementia. Factors such as reduced lighting, fatigue, and disruption of circadian rhythms contribute to this phenomenon.
D. Persistent depressive symptoms indicate a mood disorder, not nocturnal delirium. While delirium can co-occur with depression, persistent depressive symptoms do not describe the hallmark evening-onset confusion and agitation that define nocturnal delirium.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Separation anxiety disorder involves excessive fear or anxiety about being away from attachment figures, such as parents or caregivers. The primary issue is distress when separated, not inability to speak in social situations, so this is incorrect.
B. Selective mutism is correct. selective mutism is an anxiety disorder in which a child consistently fails to speak in specific social situations (e.g., at school) despite speaking in other settings (e.g., at home). The behavior is not due to lack of knowledge or comfort with the language but is driven by anxiety, fitting the scenario described.
C. Agoraphobia is characterized by intense fear of being in situations where escape may be difficult or help might not be available, such as crowds or open spaces. It does not specifically involve inability to speak in social situations, making it an incorrect choice.
D. Generalized anxiety disorder involves excessive and persistent worry about multiple aspects of daily life, such as school performance, family matters, or health. It does not typically manifest as selective failure to speak in certain social settings, so this is not the correct answer.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Encouraging the client to decide independently without providing information is unsafe and does not support informed decision-making. Clients need evidence-based guidance to weigh risks and benefits.
B. Consulting the healthcare provider about alternatives is appropriate, but the priority is first to educate the client about risks of untreated depression, as this information frames any subsequent discussion about therapy options.
C. Advising against all medications during pregnancy is overly restrictive and may put both the mother and fetus at risk if depression remains untreated. Some antidepressants can be used safely under medical supervision.
D. Educating the client about the potential adverse effects of untreated depression during pregnancy is the priority action. Untreated maternal depression can lead to poor prenatal care, preterm birth, low birth weight, impaired maternal-infant bonding, and worsening maternal mental health. By providing this information, the nurse helps the client engage in informed decision-making, weighing the risks of both treatment and non-treatment.
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