An older adult patient diagnosed with delirium is anxious, agitated, and experiencing visual hallucinations.The nurse entering the room to assess vital signs should implement which intervention to best address this behavior?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Calmly announcing oneself, explaining what is going to happen, and using a gentle touch can help decrease anxiety and agitation in a patient with delirium. This approach helps to establish a trusting relationship with the patient, which can be helpful in managing their behavior. Limiting talking with the client may not be helpful, as it may increase their feelings of isolation and confusion. Asking the patient to identify place, person, and time may further agitate them if they are unable to do so. Turning on all lights in the room may increase misinterpretations of events and worsen the visual hallucinations.

An Older Adult Patient Diagnosed with Delirium Is Anxious, Agitated