The nurse is caring for an elderly patient prone to delirium. In the middle of the night, the patient wakes up agitated and upset and insists that she is late for an appointment. Which response by the nurse is appropriate?

Gently remind the patient that she is in the hospital and (re)introduce yourself. Patients with delirium can often wake up confused and agitated, especially when in an unfamiliar setting like the hospital. It is appropriate to gently reorient the patient to time and place and reassure the patient that they are safe, and you are there to help. Playing along with the patient’s delusion can actually worsen confusion and lead to more agitation. Ignoring the patient is not appropriate.

The nurse is caring for an elderly patient prone to delirium. In...

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Psychosocial Integrity
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Category: Psychosocial Integrity
Difficulty: 2

Topics: Mental Health Disorders Neurology

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