Sudden Confusion in an Older Adult
An 82-year-old client who is normally alert and oriented and walks with a cane is found confused, agitated and unsteady during night rounds.
Recognize cues
Vital signs: temperature 37.9 C, BP 108/64, HR 102, RR 20, SpO2 94%. The client does not know the day or place, is picking at the bedding, has dry mucous membranes and reports burning with urination.
Which finding requires the most immediate follow-up?
Take action
The provider orders a urinalysis with culture, a point-of-care glucose, basic labs and IV fluids.
Which two actions should the nurse take first?
Evaluate outcomes
Twenty-four hours after fluids and antibiotics the client is oriented to person, place and time, is ambulating with the cane, and mucous membranes are moist. Temperature 36.9 C, HR 80.
Which finding best indicates the treatment is working?
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