A client with a history of cerebrovascular accident (CVA) is brought to an emergency department experiencing memory problems, confusion, and disorientation. Based on this client's assessment data, which diagnosis would the nurse expect the physician to assign?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The client's history of CVA and presenting symptoms of memory problems, confusion, and disorientation suggest that the physician may diagnose vascular dementia, which is caused by impaired blood flow to the brain. Delirium due to adverse effects of medications typically presents with acute onset and is reversible once the medication is discontinued. Altered thought processes is a broad diagnosis that does not provide a specific etiology. Alzheimer's dementia typically presents with a gradual onset of memory loss and other cognitive deficits, rather than the sudden onset seen in this case.

A Client with a History of Cerebrovascular Accident (CVA) Is