LVN Geriatric Care 4

Question 1

A nurse notices an elderly patient is acutely confused, agitated, and disoriented after surgery — different from their baseline. This presentation is most consistent with:

Accepted Answer

Delirium

Answer

Delirium is characterized by acute onset, fluctuating consciousness, and inattention — it is reversible and distinct from dementia.

Question 2

Which of the following is a key difference between delirium and dementia?

Accepted Answer

Delirium has an acute onset; dementia has a gradual onset

Answer

Delirium develops acutely over hours to days, while dementia is a progressive condition developing gradually over months to years.

Question 3

An LVN is caring for a patient with moderate Alzheimer's disease who repeatedly asks where she is. What is the best response?

Accepted Answer

Redirect and reassure her calmly each time

Answer

Calm redirection and reassurance are therapeutic for dementia patients; arguing or ignoring increases agitation and distress.

Question 4

Which behavior is commonly associated with 'sundowning' in patients with dementia?

Accepted Answer

Increased confusion and agitation in the late afternoon or evening

Answer

Sundowning refers to worsening confusion, restlessness, and behavioral disturbances that occur in the late afternoon and evening.

Question 5

A patient with dementia is pacing and appears distressed. Which nursing intervention should be tried first?

Accepted Answer

Identify and address potential unmet needs (pain, hunger, toileting)

Answer

Assessing for unmet needs such as pain, hunger, or the need to toilet often resolves agitation in dementia patients without medication.

(LVN) Licensed Vocational Nurse Practice Test

(LVN) Licensed Vocational Nurse Practice Test

LVN Geriatric Care 4