Which assessment parameter should the nurse use to differentiate between delirium and depression in an older adult?
A) Orientation
B) Activity
C) Course over the morning hours
D) Psychomotor activity

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Qualities about the patient's orientation are a good method for the nurse to use for distinguishing between delirium and depression; in delirium,orientation is usually impaired,and in depression,orientation is normal.Activity can vary throughout the day and is not a good indicator.Delirium tends to be worse at night,and depression tends to be worse in the morning.The nurse avoids using qualities about the patient's psychomotor activities to distinguish between delirium and depression in an older adult; psychomotor activities in both disorders are highly variable and make distinctions difficult.

Which Assessment Parameter Should the Nurse Use to Differentiate Between