A nurse is assessing a client who was brought in by a family member. The family member reports the client has had a change in behavior for the past 2 days. Which of the following findings should the nurse identify as an indication that the client has delirium?

Choice A reason: Echopraxia refers to the involuntary imitation of another person’s movements, often seen in schizophrenia or other psychotic disorders. While it is a significant psychiatric symptom, it is not characteristic of delirium. Delirium is marked by acute onset, fluctuating levels of consciousness, and disturbances in attention and cognition, not repetitive imitation behaviors. Choice B reason: Catatonia is a state of psychomotor disturbance that can involve immobility, mutism, or excessive motor activity. It is more commonly associated with schizophrenia, mood disorders, or medical conditions such as encephalitis. Catatonia is not a hallmark of delirium, which instead presents with acute confusion, disorientation, and fluctuating mental status. Choice C reason: Apathy refers to a lack of interest, motivation, or emotional responsiveness. While apathy can be seen in dementia, depression, or neurocognitive disorders, it is not a defining feature of delirium. Delirium is distinguished by acute changes in cognition and consciousness rather than a chronic lack of motivation. Choice D reason: Agitation is a common manifestation of delirium. Clients with delirium often experience restlessness, irritability, and heightened psychomotor activity due to acute confusion and disorientation. This symptom reflects the fluctuating and unstable nature of delirium, making agitation the correct indicator in this scenario.