An 84-year-old patient has returned from the post-anesthetic care unit (PACU) following hip arthroplasty
The patient is oriented to name only. The patient's family is very upset because, before having surgery, the patient had no cognitive deficits. The patient is subsequently diagnosed with postoperative delirium. What should the nurse explain to the patient's family?
A) This problem is self-limiting and there is nothing to worry about.
B) Delirium involves a progressive decline in memory loss and overall cognitive function.
C) Delirium of this type is treatable and her cognition will return to previous levels.
D) This problem can be resolved by administering antidotes to the anesthetic that was used in surgery.
Ans: C
Feedback:
Surgery is a common cause of delirium in older adults. Delirium differs from other types of dementia in that delirium begins with confusion and progresses to disorientation. It has symptoms that are reversible with treatment, and, with treatment, is short term in nature. It is patronizing and inaccurate to reassure the family that there is "nothing to worry about." The problem is not treated by the administration of antidotes to anesthetic.
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