Confusion is an example of altered mental status.

• A. False
• B. Not sure
• C. True
• D. Always

Answer: (C)

Altered mental status is a broad term for any change in brain function that affects awareness, thinking, or behavior. Confusion fits squarely into this category because it involves trouble thinking clearly, disorientation, and impaired attention or memory. Since confusion directly reflects disrupted cognition, it is an example of altered mental status. Remember, AMS can also present as delirium, lethargy, stupor, or even coma, so saying it is always present would be incorrect; and saying it isn’t true would ignore a common and recognizable sign of AMS.