RN Exam Practice
Safety and Infection ControlQuestion 999 of 2368

An older client who was oriented earlier becomes suddenly confused, agitated, and sees things that are not there. What should the nurse suspect and do?

  1. Delirium; report it promptly, because it may signal a life-threatening medical condition
  2. Schizophrenia; wait for the symptoms to pass before taking any action
  3. Normal aging; reassure the family that confusion is expected
  4. Bipolar disorder; give a sedative before doing any further assessment
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Correct answer: Delirium; report it promptly, because it may signal a life-threatening medical condition

Delirium starts suddenly and can signal a life-threatening condition. It resolves when the cause is treated.

Source: Nursing Health Promotion (Open RN, Chippewa Valley Technical College, 2025), Mental Health Conditions: Delirium. Licensed under CC BY 4.0.

Practice the topic "Safety and Infection Control"

Questions last reviewed: 18 October 2026