Cognitive Reflection Test (CRT) Practice

What characterizes delirium?

1. Chronic confusion and disorientation

2. Acsute disturbed state of mind with restlessness and incoherence

3. Permanent memory loss and personality changes

4. Irreversible cognitive decline with hallucinations

The correct answer is: Acsute disturbed state of mind with restlessness and incoherence

Delirium is characterized by an acute disturbance in mental functioning, which includes fluctuations in consciousness, attention, and cognition. The essence of delirium is its sudden onset and the presence of a disturbed state of mind that can be marked by disorientation, restlessness, and incoherence. This contrasts with more chronic conditions that might present with long-term cognitive disturbances. The key aspect that confirms the correct identification of delirium is the "acute" nature of the symptoms, which can typically arise from various underlying factors such as infections, metabolic imbalances, or withdrawal from substances. Recognizing that the symptoms are not permanent and can often be resolved with appropriate treatment is crucial in understanding delirium. Other choices refer to conditions with different time frames and characteristics. Chronic confusion aligns more closely with disorders like dementia, while permanent memory loss and personality changes suggest a progressive neurodegenerative disorder. The mention of irreversible cognitive decline with hallucinations leans more towards severe psychiatric or neurodegenerative conditions rather than the transient and fluctuating state seen in delirium. This distinction highlights the importance of recognizing the acute episode, which is fundamental to accurately characterizing delirium.