A 78-year-old female with a history of dementia is admitted for pneumonia. On hospital day 2, she becomes increasingly agitated, disoriented, and is picking at her IV lines. She is yelling at unseen people. Her vital signs are stable. Which of the following is the most appropriate initial management step?

✓ Correct Answer: Option C

This patient is experiencing delirium, common in elderly hospitalized patients with dementia. The priority is to identify and address reversible causes, such as medications (e.g., anticholinergics), infection, dehydration, or pain. Pharmacological intervention and restraints should be used cautiously and only after other measures fail.