A nurse is caring for an older adult who lives in a long-term care facility on the Alzheimer unit. Every evening around 5:00 p.m., the resident becomes increasingly agitated and more confused, a state that lasts throughout the evening. The nurse recognizes this behaviour as:
personality disorder.
dementia.
delirium.
sundowning syndrome.
The Correct Answer is D
A. Personality disorder. Personality disorders are long-term patterns of behaviour and inner experiences that deviate significantly from the expectations of the individual's culture. The described behaviour is a specific pattern related to the time of day, not indicative of a personality disorder.
B. Dementia. While dementia is the underlying condition, the specific worsening of symptoms in the evening is known as sundowning syndrome. Dementia alone does not specify the time-related pattern of increased confusion and agitation.
C. Delirium. Delirium is an acute, often sudden change in cognition and attention, usually caused by an underlying medical condition or substance use. The described behavior follows a regular daily pattern, indicating a different issue.
D. Sundowning syndrome. Sundowning syndrome refers to increased confusion and agitation in the late afternoon and evening, commonly seen in individuals with Alzheimer's disease or other forms of dementia.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Rheumatoid arthritis is inflammatory: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease that causes inflammation of the joints. Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disease characterized by the breakdown of joint cartilage.
B. Rheumatoid arthritis is curable: RA is not curable; it can be managed but not cured.
C. Rheumatoid arthritis is degenerative: RA is primarily inflammatory, although it can lead to degenerative changes. OA is primarily degenerative.
D. Rheumatoid arthritis only affects patients over a certain age. RA can affect individuals of any age, while OA is more common in older adults.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Conversion: Conversion involves a psychological conflict being expressed as physical symptoms, which does not fit the patient's response.
B. Repression: Repression involves unconsciously blocking out unpleasant thoughts or memories, which is not evident in the patient’s response.
C. Denial: Denial involves refusing to accept reality or facts, which fits the patient’s statement that the candy won’t affect their blood sugar levels.
D. Regression: Regression involves reverting to earlier developmental stages or behaviors, which does not apply to this situation.
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