Which delirium type is more commonly associated with agitation?

Which delirium type is more commonly associated with agitation?

• A. Hypoactive
• B. Mixed
• C. Normal
• D. Hyperactive

Answer: (D)

Agitation signals increased arousal and motor activity in delirium. Among the delirium subtypes, the hyperactive form is the one most commonly linked to agitation, with restlessness, pacing, shouting, and often hallucinations or delusions. Hypoactive delirium presents as lethargy, reduced responsiveness, and withdrawal, so agitation is not typical there. Mixed delirium involves fluctuations, and agitation can occur during hyperactive phases, but it isn’t as consistently associated as with the fully hyperactive subtype. The “normal” option isn’t a delirium type; calm, quiet behavior wouldn’t fit delirium. So the feature of agitation most strongly aligns with hyperactive delirium.

Agitation signals increased arousal and motor activity in delirium. Among the delirium subtypes, the hyperactive form is the one most commonly linked to agitation, with restlessness, pacing, shouting, and often hallucinations or delusions. Hypoactive delirium presents as lethargy, reduced responsiveness, and withdrawal, so agitation is not typical there. Mixed delirium involves fluctuations, and agitation can occur during hyperactive phases, but it isn’t as consistently associated as with the fully hyperactive subtype. The “normal” option isn’t a delirium type; calm, quiet behavior wouldn’t fit delirium. So the feature of agitation most strongly aligns with hyperactive delirium.