Author Question: When making a distinction as to whether a patient is experiencing confusion related to depression or ... (Read 31 times)

audie · **on:** Jul 19, 2018

When making a distinction as to whether a patient is experiencing confusion related to depression or dementia, what information would be most important for the nurse to consider?

a. The patient with dementia is persistently angry and hostile.
b. Early morning agitation and hyperactivity occur in dementia.
c. Confusion seems to worsen at night when dementia is present.
d. A patient who is depressed is constantly preoccupied with somatic symptoms.

Question 2

A health care provider decided that the emotional distress of an older adult patient who experiences threatening auditory hallucinations warrants the use of risperidone (Risperdal). Which intervention should the nurse add to the patient's plan of care?

a. Use disposable briefs for incontinence.
b. Monitor for psychomotor changes.
c. Implement a tyramine-free diet.
d. Monitor for dehydration.

polinasid · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 19, 2018

Answer to Question 1

ANS: C
Both dementia and depression in older adults may produce symptoms of confusion. Noting whether the confusion seems to increase at night, which occurs more often with dementia than with depression, will help distinguish whether depression or dementia is producing the confused behavior. The other options are not necessarily true.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: B
Use of atypical antipsychotic medications increases the risk of cerebrovascular events in the older adult population; therefore the nurse should carefully monitor the patient for psychomotor changes. This medication does not place the patient at great risk for the other options.