A 72-year-old woman hospitalized with pneumonia becomes disoriented and confused 2 days after admission.Which assessment information obtained by the nurse about the patient indicates that the patient is experiencing delirium rather than dementia?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The sudden onset of confusion and disorientation, as indicated by the patient being oriented and alert upon admission and then becoming disoriented and confused, is characteristic of delirium. Dementia typically involves a gradual decline in cognitive function over time, not a sudden change.

A 72-Year-Old Woman Hospitalized with Pneumonia Becomes Disoriented and Confused