A nurse is collecting data from an older adult client who was admitted with heart failure. The nurse should report which of the following findings to the provider as an indication of delirium?
Demonstrates obsessive behaviors
Fluctuating level of orientation
Family report of gradual memory loss
Consistent state of depression
The Correct Answer is B
A. Obsessive behaviors, such as repetitive actions or fixations on specific thoughts or tasks, can be indicative of delirium. Delirium often manifests with altered behavior patterns that are unusual for the individual, including obsessive or compulsive-like behaviors that are not typical of their baseline mental status. However, this is not specific to delirium.
B. Fluctuating orientation, where the client is sometimes alert and oriented and at other times confused or disoriented, is a hallmark of delirium. Unlike dementia, which typically presents with a more steady decline in cognitive function, delirium is characterized by rapid changes in mental status over hours to days. This fluctuation is important to note as it strongly suggests delirium rather than other chronic cognitive impairments.
C. Gradual memory loss reported by family members is more suggestive of chronic conditions such as dementia rather than delirium. Delirium, in contrast, is characterized by acute onset and fluctuating course rather than a gradual decline in cognitive abilities over time.
D. Depression can coexist with delirium, but a consistent state of depression without acute changes in mental status is less indicative of delirium. Delirium is characterized by rapid changes in cognition and behavior rather than a persistent mood disorder. Therefore, while depression should be assessed and managed appropriately, it is not typically a sign of delirium unless there are acute changes in mental status accompanying it.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. This statement describes a visual hallucination (seeing spiders crawling), not a command hallucination. Visual hallucinations involve seeing things that are not actually present.
B. This statement reflects a delusion rather than a hallucination. Delusions are false beliefs that are firmly held despite evidence to the contrary. In this case, the belief in aliens and abduction is not related to hearing voices commanding actions.
C. This statement indicates a command hallucination. The client hears voices instructing them to stop eating. Command hallucinations often involve direct, imperative commands from voices that are perceived as real.
D. This statement reflects paranoia or fear of harm from others, which can be a common symptom in schizophrenia. However, it does not directly indicate a command hallucination.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Reaction formation is a defense mechanism where an individual expresses feelings or impulses that are the opposite of their anxiety-provoking unconscious feelings. For example, someone who harbors unconscious aggressive feelings might demonstrate exaggerated friendliness. However, this defense mechanism is more about behaviors and attitudes rather than physical manifestations.
B. Somatization is the conversion of psychological distress into physical symptoms. It involves experiencing physical symptoms, such as pain or illness, without a clear medical cause. This defense mechanism is common in individuals with anxiety disorders who may manifest their anxiety through physical complaints rather than acknowledging their emotional distress.
C. Sublimation involves channeling unacceptable impulses or emotions into socially acceptable behaviors. It does not typically involve physical manifestations but rather a redirection of emotions or impulses into constructive activities. For example, someone with aggressive impulses might channel them into sports or artistic pursuits.
D. Intellectualization is a defense mechanism where reasoning and logic are used to distance oneself from uncomfortable or threatening feelings. It involves focusing on facts and avoiding emotions associated with a situation. This mechanism is more cognitive and may involve discussing or analyzing anxiety-inducing situations in a detached, rational manner.
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