When communicating with a client who has delirium, which approach is best to prevent a startle response?

When communicating with a client who has delirium, which approach is best to prevent a startle response?

• A. Use touch to communicate warmth and concern.
• B. Keep communication general and abstract.
• C. Talk in a loud voice.
• D. Approach the client from the front to prevent a startle response.

Answer: (D)

Delirium makes a person highly sensitive to stimuli, and a startle reaction can escalate confusion and agitation. Approaching the client from the front provides a clear visual cue, helps the person orient to who is approaching, and reduces the chance of a sudden, surprising movement from behind or the side. Before getting closer, announce yourself and your intention, stay at or slightly below eye level, and move slowly with a calm, reassuring presence. Keep touch minimal and use simple, concrete language so the client can follow what you’re saying. The other approaches increase risk: touching without warning can startle, speaking in abstract terms is hard for someone with delirium to process, and a loud voice can heighten fear or agitation.

Delirium makes a person highly sensitive to stimuli, and a startle reaction can escalate confusion and agitation. Approaching the client from the front provides a clear visual cue, helps the person orient to who is approaching, and reduces the chance of a sudden, surprising movement from behind or the side. Before getting closer, announce yourself and your intention, stay at or slightly below eye level, and move slowly with a calm, reassuring presence. Keep touch minimal and use simple, concrete language so the client can follow what you’re saying. The other approaches increase risk: touching without warning can startle, speaking in abstract terms is hard for someone with delirium to process, and a loud voice can heighten fear or agitation.