Understanding Delirium and Dementia

What is the main difference between dementia and delirium?

• Dementia is reversible, but delirium is permanent

• Delirium has a sudden onset, while dementia develops gradually

• Dementia only affects memory, while delirium only affects speech

• Both conditions progress at the same rate

A key feature of dementia is:

• Fluctuating confusion throughout the day

• Rapid improvement with medication

• Progressive and irreversible memory loss

• Symptoms that resolve in 24 hours

Which of the following is not a common cause of delirium?

• Infection

• Medication side effects

• Dehydration

• Genetic factors

What should a PCT do when caring for a patient with delirium?

• Reorient the patient frequently to time and place

• Encourage isolation to prevent confusion

• Avoid providing explanations

• Allow them to wander freely

Which is a common symptom of Alzheimer’s disease?

• Sudden memory loss that improves with rest

• Difficulty recognizing familiar faces

• Uncontrollable muscle movements

• Increased physical strength

What is an appropriate safety measure for a patient with dementia?

• Keeping the room dark to avoid overstimulation

• Providing familiar objects to reduce anxiety

• Moving them frequently between different rooms

• Letting them make all medical decisions alone

What is the most common type of dementia?

• Vascular dementia

• Lewy body dementia

• Alzheimer’s disease

• Frontotemporal dementia

What is a hallmark brain change seen in Alzheimer’s disease?

• Increased dopamine production

• Formation of plaques and tangles

• Swelling of brain tissue

• Rapid brain cell regeneration

Which is an early symptom of Alzheimer’s disease?

• Forgetting recent information

• Complete loss of speech

• Muscle paralysis

• Uncontrollable shaking

What is sundowning in Alzheimer’s patients?

• Feeling better in the evening

• Increased confusion and agitation in the late afternoon/evening

• A condition only found in early-stage AD

• A sleep disorder unrelated to dementia