A 72-year-old man with a history of hypertension and diabetes presents with confusion and fluctuating attention after a pneumonia admission. He is dis...

Question

A 72-year-old man with a history of hypertension and diabetes presents with confusion and fluctuating attention after a pneumonia admission. He is disorientated and has visual hallucinations. Which feature best distinguishes delirium from dementia in this context?

Accepted Answer

Fluctuating level of consciousness and inattention over hours to days

Answer

Gradual onset of memory impairment over years

Answer

Presence of visual hallucinations

Answer

Age over 65 years

Answer

History of hypertension

ca-mccqe1 MCQ (SBA): Delirium

A 72-year-old man with a history of hypertension and diabetes presents with confusion and fluctuating attention after a pneumonia admission. He is disorientated and has visual hallucinations. Which feature best distinguishes delirium from dementia in this context?