Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 88%
Simulated
A nurse is caring for an elderly client diagnosed with a urinary tract infection (UTI). The family reports an abrupt onset of altered mental status disorientation and intermittent hallucinations. The nurse would identify these signs to be consistent with which sensory alteration?
Correct answer
D
Rationale
The correct answer is D: Delirium. Delirium is characterized by a rapid onset of altered mental status, disorientation, and hallucinations, often triggered by an underlying medical condition like a UTI in elderly clients. Sleep deprivation (A) typically presents with fatigue and difficulty concentrating. Normal signs of aging (B) do not include sudden onset altered mental status. Dementia (C) is a chronic condition with gradual cognitive decline, not rapid onset.