You are caring for a 92-year-old female patient who was admitted to the hospital 1 day after outpatient cataract surgery. The patient who lives in an assisted living facility became very confused and agitated and was found wandering in the lobby of the building in her nightgown. The patient refused to return to their room and stated that there were "bad men" in the room. The patient has a history of dementia, diabetes, heart failure, and is on seven different medications. The patients lost their spouse 1 year ago. The nurse suspects that the patient is experiencing delirium. What are the patient's risk factors for delirium? (Select all that apply.)
Recent cataract surgery
History of dementia
Age of 92
Female gender
Residing in an assisted living facility
Correct Answer : A,B,C
A. Recent cataract surgery is a risk factor because acute illness, surgical procedures, and changes in routine or environment can trigger postoperative delirium, especially in older adults.
B. History of dementia is one of the strongest risk factors for developing delirium due to decreased cognitive reserve.
C. Age of 92 increases vulnerability to delirium due to general age-related changes in the brain and increased susceptibility to stressors.
D. Female gender is not an independent risk factor for delirium; both men and women can be equally affected, though some studies suggest slightly higher risk in men.
E. Residing in an assisted living facility may be associated with other risks, but it is not a direct risk factor for delirium. The environmental change (e.g., hospitalization) is more relevant.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","C","D"]
Explanation
A. Relaxation techniquescan help reduce symptoms and improve sleep quality in individuals with Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS), also known as Willis-Ekbom Disease (WED).
B. Diphenhydramineand other antihistamines are not recommendedfor RLS, as they can actually worsen symptomsand cause anticholinergic side effects in older adults.
C. Regular mild to moderate physical activity, especially stretching the lower extremities, can help relieve RLS symptoms and improve circulation.
D. Avoiding caffeine, alcohol, and tobaccois essential because these substances can exacerbate RLS symptoms.
E. Hot bathsare not contraindicated; in fact, they may actually help relieve symptoms for some individuals. Therefore, avoiding them is not recommended.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Hypothermiais clinically defined as a core body temperature below 95.0°F (35°C). It is a medical emergency, especially in older adults who may have reduced thermoregulation.
B. 97.5°F is within the normal rangefor body temperature and does not indicate hypothermia.
C. 93.2°F is considered moderate hypothermia, but the diagnostic threshold is 95.0°F.
D. 90.5°F would indicate severe hypothermia, but again, the official definition begins at <95.0°F.
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