A nurse is assessing a client who has delirium as a result of sepsis. Which of the following manifestations should the nurse expect? (Select all that apply.)
Explanation & Rationale
A reason: Slow speech. Slow speech is not typically associated with delirium. Clients with delirium often exhibit rapid and disorganized speech rather than slowed speech patterns. B reason: Rapid mood changes. Rapid mood changes are common in delirium. Clients may quickly shift from calm to agitated or from happy to irritable, reflecting the fluctuating nature of their cognitive status. C reason: Hallucinations. Hallucinations, particularly visual or auditory, are a common symptom of delirium. Clients may see or hear things that are not present, contributing to their confusion and distress. D reason: Unaltered level of consciousness. Delirium is characterized by altered levels of consciousness, not unaltered. Clients may experience fluctuating alertness, from drowsiness to hyperactivity. E reason: Restlessness. Restlessness and agitation are hallmark symptoms of delirium. Clients may become physically restless, unable to sit still, and exhibit purposeless movements.