Which patient problem is a significant risk factor for the development of delirium in the intensive care unit (ICU)?
Type 2 diabetes mellitus
Alcohol abuse
Anxiety
Impaired communication
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason: Type 2 diabetes mellitus, while a serious chronic condition, does not directly predispose patients to delirium. Diabetes primarily impacts the body's ability to regulate blood glucose levels, leading to complications such as cardiovascular disease, neuropathy, and nephropathy. However, it is not directly linked to the acute cognitive disturbances seen in delirium unless it leads to severe metabolic derangements, which is less common.
Choice B reason: Alcohol abuse is a significant risk factor for the development of delirium, especially in ICU patients. Chronic alcohol use can lead to a condition known as delirium tremens (DTs) during withdrawal, characterized by severe agitation, confusion, hallucinations, and autonomic hyperactivity. Patients with a history of alcohol abuse may have altered brain chemistry and neurotransmitter imbalances that predispose them to delirium when stressed by illness or surgery. Moreover, alcohol abuse can lead to liver dysfunction, nutritional deficiencies (particularly thiamine), and other systemic issues that further exacerbate the risk.
Choice C reason: Anxiety can exacerbate stress and discomfort in a patient but is not a primary causative factor for delirium. Anxiety may contribute to an increased sense of fear or confusion, especially in an ICU setting. However, it does not cause the profound disruption in cognitive function, attention, and awareness that characterizes delirium.
Choice D reason: Impaired communication might be a consequence or symptom seen in patients with delirium, but it is not a root cause. Patients with pre-existing communication difficulties might struggle more to express symptoms or needs, which could complicate care, but it does not inherently lead to the onset of delirium. Effective communication strategies and aids can help manage these challenges but do not address the underlying neurological changes seen in delirium.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["B","C","D"]
Explanation
Choice A reason: Anorexia, nausea, and vomiting are not typical findings associated with Cushing syndrome. These symptoms can be related to other medical conditions but do not specifically indicate Cushing syndrome.
Choice B reason: Truncal obesity, thin extremities, and rounding of the face (moon face) are classic signs of Cushing syndrome. This condition leads to fat redistribution, resulting in increased fat around the trunk and face while the extremities appear thinner. The distinctive appearance of moon face is due to fat accumulation.
Choice C reason: Purplish streaks on the abdomen, also known as striae, are a common feature of Cushing syndrome. These stretch marks occur due to the excessive production of cortisol, which weakens the connective tissue, leading to skin changes.
Choice D reason: Hyperglycemia, or high blood sugar, is frequently seen in patients with Cushing syndrome. The excess cortisol increases glucose production and decreases insulin sensitivity, leading to elevated blood sugar levels.
Choice E reason: A bronzed appearance of the skin is not a typical finding of Cushing syndrome. This symptom is more commonly associated with Addison's disease, which involves adrenal insufficiency rather than excess cortisol production seen in Cushing syndrome.
Correct Answer is ["B","C","D"]
Explanation
Choice A reason: Fluid restrictions are not appropriate for stabilizing a patient with acute anemia. In fact, patients with anemia might require fluid resuscitation to maintain adequate blood volume and pressure. Restricting fluids could potentially worsen the patient's condition.
Choice B reason: Iron supplements are necessary for patients with acute anemia, especially if the anemia is due to iron deficiency. Supplementation helps replenish iron stores in the body, aiding in the production of hemoglobin and red blood cells which are critical for carrying oxygen to tissues.
Choice C reason: PRBC (Packed Red Blood Cells) transfusion is a common and effective intervention for acute anemia. It quickly increases the number of red blood cells in the patient's circulation, thereby improving oxygen delivery to tissues and alleviating symptoms of anemia such as fatigue and weakness.
Choice D reason: O2 therapy, or oxygen therapy, is crucial for stabilizing patients with acute anemia. Anemia results in reduced oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood, and supplemental oxygen helps ensure that tissues receive sufficient oxygen. This intervention can be lifesaving in severe cases of anemia.
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