A nurse is assisting in the care of a client suspected of having a tuberculosis infection. Which of the following personal protective equipment should the nurse wear when in the client's room?

A. Amyloid plaque: Amyloid plaque buildup is characteristic of Alzheimer’s disease, a chronic, progressive form of dementia. While dementia can increase the overall risk for delirium, amyloid plaques themselves are not an immediate trigger for acute confusion like delirium.

B. Urinary tract infection: Urinary tract infections are a common reversible cause of delirium, especially in older adults. Infections can trigger a systemic inflammatory response and disrupt normal brain function, leading to sudden-onset confusion, disorientation, and restlessness due to systemic inflammation and changes in metabolic balance.

C. High cholesterol: High cholesterol contributes to long-term cardiovascular risks, such as atherosclerosis and stroke, but it is not directly linked to the sudden cognitive changes seen in delirium. It does not cause the acute neurological dysfunction characteristic of delirium.

D. Hypersomnia: Hypersomnia, or excessive daytime sleepiness, may reflect underlying sleep disorders or other chronic conditions, but it is not recognized as a common direct cause of delirium. Acute changes in mental status are more often tied to factors like infection, medications, or metabolic disturbances.

A. "I will support your decision and help you explain it to others.": This response respects the client's autonomy and decision-making rights. It also offers emotional support and assistance in communicating the client's wishes to other healthcare team members or family, promoting dignity and advocacy.

B. "Let me explain the pros and cons of your decision.": This response may sound judgmental and suggest that the nurse is trying to influence the client's decision. Once a competent client has made a choice, the nurse’s role is to support it rather than attempt to persuade or second-guess it.

C. "I suggest you discuss this decision with your family first.": While family discussions can be valuable, the client has the primary right to make healthcare decisions. Suggesting they must discuss it with family could delay honoring the client’s wishes or create unnecessary emotional pressure.

D. "I will send the social worker in to discuss this decision with you.": While a social worker can provide additional support, immediately deferring to someone else instead of acknowledging the client’s decision can make the client feel dismissed. The nurse should first validate and support the client’s expressed wishes.