A nurse is caring for an elderly client diagnosed with a urinary tract infection (UTI). The family reports an abrupt onset of altered mental status, disorientation, and intermittent hallucinations. The nurse would identify these signs to be consistent with which sensory alteration?

Sleep deprivation

Normal signs of aging

Dementia

Delirium

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is D

Choice A Reason:

Sleep deprivation is incorrect. While sleep deprivation can cause confusion and disorientation, it is less likely to cause abrupt onset of altered mental status and hallucinations. Sleep deprivation typically results in gradual cognitive decline and fatigue rather than sudden changes.

Choice B Reason:

Normal signs of aging is incorrect. Normal aging can involve some cognitive decline, but it does not typically cause sudden and severe symptoms like hallucinations and significant disorientation. These symptoms are more indicative of an acute condition.

Choice C Reason:

Dementia is incorrect. Dementia involves a gradual decline in cognitive function over time and does not typically present with sudden onset of symptoms. While dementia can include hallucinations and disorientation, these symptoms usually develop progressively.

Choice D Reason:

Delirium is correct. Delirium is characterized by a sudden onset of confusion, disorientation, and changes in mental status. It is often triggered by acute medical conditions such as infections, including UTIs. Elderly patients are particularly susceptible to delirium, which can include symptoms like hallucinations and severe confusion.

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Choice A Reason:

Retrieving the blood from the laboratory and running each unit at an 8-hour rate is not appropriate. According to transfusion guidelines, blood products should be infused within 4 hours to prevent bacterial growth and reduce the risk of transfusion-related complications1. Infusing blood over 8 hours increases the risk of these complications.

Choice B Reason:

Notifying the laboratory to split the unit into 2 and then infusing each half for 4 hours is also not ideal. While this approach might seem to address the time constraint, it is not a standard practice and could lead to issues with blood product integrity and patient safety2. Blood products are typically not split unless there are specific protocols in place, and this is not a common intervention for managing infusion rates.

Choice C Reason:

Calling the HCP to question the order is the correct intervention. Blood transfusions must be completed within 4 hours to ensure patient safety and maintain the integrity of the blood product3. The nurse should advocate for the patient by questioning any orders that do not align with established guidelines and best practices.

Choice D Reason:

Infusing each unit for 8 hours is incorrect. The maximum duration for infusing a unit of blood is 4 hours4. Extending the infusion time beyond this limit increases the risk of complications such as bacterial contamination and reduced efficacy of the blood product.

A. When did you begin to have trouble sleeping? B. Are there any specific factors that you think are affecting your ability to sleep? C. Do you have difficulty staying awake when you are driving? D. Can you describe your bedtime routine to me?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Choice A Reason:

Asking “When did you begin to have trouble sleeping?” is important for understanding the onset and duration of the client’s insomnia. However, it does not directly address immediate safety concerns. Chronic insomnia can lead to significant daytime impairment, but the question about the onset of sleep troubles does not identify specific safety risks.

Choice B Reason:

Inquiring about specific factors affecting the client’s ability to sleep can help identify potential causes of insomnia, such as stress, environmental factors, or medical conditions. While this information is valuable for treatment planning, it does not directly address immediate safety concerns.

Choice C Reason:

Asking “Do you have difficulty staying awake when you are driving?” addresses the highest safety priority. Chronic insomnia can lead to excessive daytime sleepiness, which significantly increases the risk of accidents, especially while driving. Identifying whether the client is at risk of falling asleep during potentially dangerous activities is crucial for immediate safety.

Choice D Reason:

Understanding the client’s bedtime routine can provide insights into their sleep hygiene and habits, which are important for managing insomnia. However, this question does not directly address immediate safety concerns related to daytime functioning and the risk of accidents.

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A nurse is caring for an elderly client diagnosed with a urinary tract infection (UTI). The family reports an abrupt onset of altered mental status, disorientation, and intermittent hallucinations. The nurse would identify these signs to be consistent with which sensory alteration?

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A nurse is assessing a client who has chronic insomnia. Which question would address the highest safety priority for the client?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

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