Registered Psychiatric Nurses of Canada Examination (RPNCE) Practice test

Delirium is characterized by an acute change in mental status that can manifest through a variety of symptoms. These symptoms typically include disorientation, agitation, memory impairments, and hallucinations. Disorientation is common in individuals with delirium as they may have difficulty recognizing their environment, time, or themselves. Agitation can also be present, where the individual may exhibit increased restlessness or hyperactivity, which can be distressing both for the patient and those around them. Additionally, memory loss, particularly in the short term, is frequently observed, impacting the individual’s ability to retain and recall information. Hallucinations can occur, where the person experiences sensory perceptions that are not present, further complicating their cognitive state. Given that delirium can encompass a wide array of symptoms, all listed symptoms are relevant and indicative of delirium. Thus, when considering Mr. Sidhu's circumstances, if he is displaying disorientation, agitation, memory loss, and hallucinations, this points towards a probable diagnosis of delirium. Therefore, all the symptoms listed contribute to the understanding that he is experiencing this acute confusional state.