An 80-year-old patient is placed in isolation when infected with methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus.
The patient was alert and oriented on admission, but is now having visual hallucinations and can follow only simple directions. The medical-surgical nurse recognizes that the changes in the patient's mental status are related to:
- 1- a fluid and electrolyte imbalance.
- 2- a stimulating environment.
- 3- sensory deprivation.
Of the options provided, the most likely cause of the 80-year-old patient's change in mental status is: 1. A fluid and electrolyte imbalance.
Here's why:
- Age:
Elderly individuals are more susceptible to fluid and electrolyte imbalances due to decreased kidney function, chronic health conditions, and medications.
- Infection:
Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infection can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances through mechanisms like fever, vomiting, and diarrhea.
- Symptoms:
Visual hallucinations and difficulty following complex instructions are common symptoms of delirium, a condition often caused by fluid and electrolyte imbalances, especially in older adults.
- Other options:
While a stimulating environment and sensory deprivation can contribute to delirium, they are less likely explanations in this case. The patient is already isolated, reducing environmental stimuli, and the focus of the information provided is on the infection and its potential consequences.
Therefore, while the other options are not completely ruled out, fluid and electrolyte imbalance is the most probable explanation for the patient's change in mental status based on the given information.
It's important to remember that accurately diagnosing the cause of delirium requires a comprehensive evaluation by a healthcare professional, considering all factors, including medical history, medications, and laboratory tests.
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Medical Surgery