The family of an older adult client is informed that the client has delirium. Which statement indicates that the family understands the diagnosis?
A)"It's sad that dad is getting dementia."
B)"The changes in his behavior came on so quickly, which may be the result of an underlying medical condition."
C)"Our father is going to need long-term psychiatric care."
D)"Confusion is normal in older adults, and it goes away on its own."

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A)Delirium is characterized by a rapid and abrupt onset of symptoms and caused by an underlying medical condition. Once the medical condition is treated, the delirium resolves. Although delirium is more common in older individuals, aging is not a cause of delirium. Impairments in short-term memory are more indicative of dementia. The fact that he had been independent has no bearing on his current symptoms.
B)Delirium is characterized by a rapid and abrupt onset of symptoms and caused by an underlying medical condition. Once the medical condition is treated, the delirium resolves. Although delirium is more common in older individuals, aging is not a cause of delirium. Impairments in short-term memory are more indicative of dementia. The fact that he had been independent has no bearing on his current symptoms.
C)Delirium is characterized by a rapid and abrupt onset of symptoms and caused by an underlying medical condition. Once the medical condition is treated, the delirium resolves. Although delirium is more common in older individuals, aging is not a cause of delirium. Impairments in short-term memory are more indicative of dementia. The fact that he had been independent has no bearing on his current symptoms.
D)Delirium is characterized by a rapid and abrupt onset of symptoms and caused by an underlying medical condition. Once the medical condition is treated, the delirium resolves. Although delirium is more common in older individuals, aging is not a cause of delirium. Impairments in short-term memory are more indicative of dementia. The fact that he had been independent has no bearing on his current symptoms.

The Family of an Older Adult Client Is Informed That