Progressive Care Nursing Certification (PCCN) Practice Exam

Which condition is a documented risk factor for delirium during a PCU admission?

1. Hypotension

2. Immobility

3. Limited range of motion

4. Alcoholism

The correct answer is: Alcoholism

Alcoholism is a well-recognized risk factor for delirium, particularly in a progressive care unit (PCU) setting. Patients with a history of alcohol use disorders may experience withdrawal symptoms or acute delirium, especially if they are abruptly deprived of alcohol. This can lead to a decreased threshold for delirium when combined with other factors common in hospitalized patients, such as medications or changes in environment. Delirium is influenced by several underlying conditions and vulnerabilities. Alcoholism can affect the central nervous system and disrupt normal neurochemical processes, making individuals more susceptible to the onset of delirium during hospitalization. Awareness and management of this risk factor are crucial for nursing staff to prevent, recognize, and treat delirium effectively. While hypotension, immobility, and limited range of motion can contribute to a patient's overall risk profile, they are not as directly established in the literature as risk factors for delirium compared to the recognized impact of alcoholism. Thus, while they can impact a patient’s health status and recovery, they do not have the same level of documented correlation with delirium onset as alcoholism does.