Registered Psychiatric Nurses of Canada Examination (RPNCE) Practice test

What should be the RPN's focus when caring for a patient exhibiting signs of delirium?

1. Provide stimulus to engage the patient

2. Ensure a calm and safe environment

3. Restrict access to personal items

4. Assess for physical ailments

The correct answer is: Ensure a calm and safe environment

When caring for a patient exhibiting signs of delirium, the primary focus should be on ensuring a calm and safe environment. Delirium is characterized by fluctuating levels of consciousness, confusion, and disturbed cognitive function. Patients may be disoriented, anxious, or exhibit unpredictable behaviors. In such cases, creating a safe space helps to minimize agitation and confusion, reducing the risk of injury to the patient or others. A calm environment can also support the patient's ability to orient themselves and process their surroundings more effectively. It aids in reducing environmental stressors that may worsen their condition. Providing reassurance and familiarity can also have a calming effect, helping the patient feel more secure during a disordered state of mind. While assessing for physical ailments is crucial, as physical health can greatly impact mental status, the immediate need is to stabilize the environment and provide safety. Engaging with stimuli or restricting access to personal items might not adequately address the pressing need for a secure and supportive atmosphere in which the patient can feel safe and possibly recover more swiftly from delirium.