An older adult is prescribed digoxin and hydrochlorothiazide daily as well as lorazepam as needed for anxiety. Over 2 days, the patient developed confusion, slurred speech, an unsteady gait, and fluctuating levels of orientation. What is the most likely reason for the patient's change in mental status?
A) Drug actions and interactions
B) Benzodiazepine withdrawal
C) Hypotensive episodes
D) Renal failure

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Drug actions and interactions are common among elderly persons and predispose this population to delirium. Delirium is characterized by an abrupt onset of fluctuating levels of awareness, clouded consciousness, perceptual disturbances, and disturbed memory and orientation. The patient takes lorazepam on a prn basis, so withdrawal is unlikely. Hypotensive episodes or problems with renal function may occur associated with the patient's drug regime, but interactions are more likely the problem.

An Older Adult Is Prescribed Digoxin and Hydrochlorothiazide Daily as Well