Neurocognitive Disorders Townsend Psych Nursing

1. A geriatric nurse is teaching student nurses about the risk factors for development of delirium in older adults. Which student statement indicates that learning has occurred? A. Taking multiple medications may lead to adverse interactions or toxicity. B. Age-related cognitive changes may lead to alterations in mental status. C. Lack of rigorous exercise may lead to decreased cerebral blood flow. D. Decreased social interaction may lead to profound isolation and psychosis. - ANS: A The nurse should identify that taking multiple medications may lead to adverse reactions or toxicity and put an older adult at risk for the development of delirium. Symptoms of delirium include difficulty sustaining and shifting attention. The client with delirium is disoriented to time and place and may also have impaired memory. 2. A client diagnosed with vascular dementia is discharged to home under the care of his wife. Which information should cause the nurse to question the clients safety? A. His wife works from home in telecommunication. B. The client has worked the night shift his entire career. C. His wife has minimal family support. D. The client smokes one pack of cigarettes per day. - ANS: D Forgetfulness is an early symptom of dementia that would alert the nurse to question the clients safety at home if the client smokes cigarettes. Vascular dementia is a clinical syndrome of dementia due to significant cerebrovascular disease. The cause of vascular dementia is related to an interruption of blood flow to the brain. High blood pressure and hypertension are significant factors in the etiology.