National Association of Boards of Long Term Care Administrator (NAB) CORE Practice Exam

Which of the following best describes the characteristics of delirium?

1. Progressive cognitive decline

2. Rapid onset of mental confusion

3. Long-term memory impairment

4. Sleep disturbances

The correct answer is: Rapid onset of mental confusion

The characteristic that best describes delirium is the rapid onset of mental confusion. Delirium is a serious disturbance in mental abilities that results in confused thinking and reduced awareness of the environment. This condition typically develops quickly—over hours or days—and can fluctuate, which makes it distinct from other cognitive impairments such as dementia, which usually has a more gradual onset and progressive decline. Additionally, while delirium may include elements like sleep disturbances or memory issues, these are not definitive characteristics. Sleep disturbances can be a part of delirium, but they are not a primary feature. Similarly, long-term memory impairment is more closely associated with conditions like dementia. Thus, rapid onset of mental confusion captures the essence of delirium and is a critical aspect to recognize in clinical settings. Understanding this can aid caregivers and health professionals in diagnosing and managing delirium effectively.