A nurse is caring for a group of older adult clients. Which of the following manifestations indicates one of the clients is experiencing delirium?
A client requests extra blankets when the thermostat in the room indicates 25.6°C (78°F).
A client attempts to climb out of bed and repeatedly states she must get home.
A client refuses to get out of bed and has no motivation to attend to daily hygiene.
A client wants to know the current time while there is a clock on the wall.
The Correct Answer is B
The correct answer is choice B.
Choice A rationale:
A client requesting extra blankets due to a room temperature discrepancy is not indicative of delirium. This behavior may simply stem from feeling cold, which is a logical response to a temperature below the client's comfort level.
Choice B rationale:
A client attempting to climb out of bed and repeatedly stating a need to get home is a manifestation of delirium. Delirium is characterized by sudden disturbances in consciousness and cognitive function, leading to confusion and altered perception. The client's behavior suggests a disoriented state and a distorted perception of reality.
Choice C rationale:
A client refusing to get out of bed and lacking motivation for daily hygiene might not necessarily indicate delirium. These symptoms could be related to other factors, such as depression or physical discomfort, which are not specific to delirium.
Choice D rationale:
A client wanting to know the current time when there is a visible clock on the wall doesn't indicate delirium. It might just reflect the client's desire to know the time, which is a common behavior and doesn't directly relate to cognitive disturbances associated with delirium.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) is a potentially life-threatening condition that can occur as a severe adverse effect of antipsychotic medications, such as risperidone (Risperdal). Symptoms of NMS include flu-like symptoms (fever, muscle rigidity, and sweating) along with altered mental status, and autonomic dysregulation. It's crucial for the nurse to recognize this potentially fatal condition promptly and intervene appropriately.
Choice B rationale:
Tardive dyskinesia is a movement disorder that is often a result of long-term use of antipsychotic medications, but it is characterized by repetitive, involuntary movements of the face and other body parts. It doesn't typically present with flu-like symptoms or low blood pressure.
Choice C rationale:
Acute dystonia is characterized by involuntary muscle contractions and spasms, often involving the muscles of the face, neck, and back. It usually occurs shortly after starting antipsychotic treatment. While it can cause discomfort, it doesn't present with flu-like symptoms and low blood pressure as described in the scenario.
Choice D rationale:
Pseudoparkinsonism, also known as drug-induced parkinsonism, is characterized by symptoms similar to Parkinson's disease, such as tremors, bradykinesia (slowness of movement), and rigidity. It doesn't typically cause flu-like symptoms and low blood pressure.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
The correct answer is choice D: "Remain with the client in his room for a while."
Choice D rationale:
This choice is the correct answer because when a client is experiencing panic-level anxiety, their immediate need is for support and reassurance. Staying with the client helps establish a sense of safety and demonstrates the nurse's presence, which can help reduce anxiety. Providing a calming and supportive presence is a therapeutic nursing intervention in this situation.
Choice A rationale:
Medicating the client with a sedative might be appropriate in some cases of severe anxiety, but it should not be the first action taken. Non-pharmacological interventions, such as offering emotional support, should be prioritized before resorting to medication.
Choice B rationale:
Joining a therapy group might be beneficial for the client in the future, but during the acute phase of panic-level anxiety, the client might not be in a state to actively participate and engage in group therapy. Immediate individual attention is necessary.
Choice C rationale:
While suggesting that the client rest in bed could be helpful for relaxation, it might not be sufficient to address the intensity of panic-level anxiety. The client might not be able to rest or calm down without more direct support from the nurse.
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