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.)

A. Slow speech: Clients with delirium may exhibit slowed or slurred speech due to cognitive impairment and difficulty organizing thoughts. This reflects the acute confusion and attention deficits characteristic of the condition. B. Rapid mood changes: Emotional lability, including sudden irritability, anxiety, or euphoria, is common in delirium. These rapid mood fluctuations result from the brain’s impaired ability to regulate emotions during the acute illness. C. Hallucinations: Delirium can involve perceptual disturbances such as visual or auditory hallucinations. These are a hallmark feature and may contribute to agitation or fear in the affected client. D. Unaltered level of consciousness: Delirium typically involves a fluctuating level of consciousness, ranging from hyperalertness to drowsiness. An unaltered level of consciousness is not consistent with delirium. E. Restlessness: Hyperactivity and restlessness are common manifestations of delirium. Clients may pace, fidget, or have difficulty remaining still due to cognitive and perceptual disturbances.