A patient with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is hospitalized for respiratory distress and has improved.She becomes very anxious when experiencing shortness of breath.One evening she is found to be restless and disorganized in her behavior and conversation.Which of the following should be considered first in determining the possible causes of these changes?

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Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Hypoxia can mimic anxiety by causing restlessness,purposeless or repetitive activity,disorganization,and confusion.Persons with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease are often anxious about shortness of breath and the impact of their illness on their future health and independence,but because hypoxia presents a risk to the patient's health and safety,this potential cause of the patient's presentation should be considered first.Dementia develops slowly,unlike the acute mental status changes seen here.

A Patient with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Is Hospitalized for Respiratory