Which statement made by a family member tends to support a diagnosis of delirium rather than dementia?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because the sudden onset of confusion is a key characteristic of delirium, whereas dementia typically has a gradual progression. Choice B suggests a symptom of dementia - progressive memory loss. Choice C indicates a hallucination, which can occur in both delirium and dementia. Choice D describes memory and cognitive impairment, which can be seen in both conditions but is more indicative of dementia due to the chronic nature of forgetfulness.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because it is important for children to be given clear and honest information about death to help them process their grief effectively. This choice provides the 4-year-old sister with a direct and simple explanation of her brother's death, which can help her understand the permanence of the situation. Choices B, C, and D use euphemisms or abstract concepts that may confuse or mislead the child, potentially causing more distress or misunderstanding. It is crucial to be honest and straightforward with children about death to support their emotional well-being.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because OCD symptoms typically worsen with stress due to increased anxiety triggering obsessions and compulsions. This understanding is crucial for the family to help manage the condition effectively. Option A is incorrect because thoughts in OCD are intrusive and involuntary. Option B is incorrect as immediate attention may reinforce the symptoms. Option D is incorrect as OCD can respond well to treatment approaches like therapy and medication.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Sensory losses. In this scenario, the older adult patient's agitation and readiness to strike out may be due to sensory losses such as hearing or vision impairment, leading to frustration and miscommunication. Assessing for sensory losses is crucial to understand the root cause of the patient's behavior and provide appropriate interventions. A: Panic disorder - This choice is incorrect as panic disorder typically presents with sudden and intense episodes of fear or anxiety, not necessarily leading to physical aggression. B: Epilepsy - This choice is incorrect as epilepsy is a neurological disorder characterized by seizures, not typically associated with sudden aggression. C: Bipolar disorder - This choice is incorrect as bipolar disorder involves distinct episodes of mania and depression, which may not directly cause the patient's behavior in this situation.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: functional abilities. A comprehensive geriatric assessment should focus on assessing the older adult's functional abilities to determine their ability to carry out activities of daily living independently. This is crucial in evaluating their overall health and quality of life. By assessing functional abilities, nurses can identify areas of impairment and develop appropriate interventions to maintain or improve the client's independence. Physical signs of aging (Choice A) may provide some information about the client's health status, but focusing solely on this aspect may overlook important functional deficits. Immunological function (Choice B) is important but may not be the primary focus of a geriatric assessment unless specific health concerns are present. Chronic illness (Choice D) is also important to consider but does not encompass the holistic assessment of functional abilities needed in geriatric care.