After being released from a brief hospitalization for minor surgery, 70-year-old Mrs. Bee seemed distractible and disoriented. She did not even recognize her husband when he came to pick her up from the hospital. After they returned home, they discussed their plans for the weekend and Mrs. Bee seemed fine, but as night came on, she could not sleep and began accusing Mr. Bee of throwing away her belongings while she was away. Which of the following disorders best fits Mrs. Bee's symptoms?
A)Delusional (paranoid)disorder
B)Early dementia, probably Alzheimer's disease
C)Delirium
D)Depression

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Mrs. Bee's symptoms are consistent with delirium, which is a sudden onset of confusion and disorientation often seen in older adults after surgery or illness. Delusional disorder and dementia typically have a slower onset, while depression does not usually cause the level of confusion and disorientation seen in Mrs. Bee's case.

After Being Released from a Brief Hospitalization for Minor Surgery