Which condition exemplifies a geriatric syndrome?

A geriatric syndrome refers to a common health condition in older adults that typically involves a complex interaction of various factors, leading to increased vulnerability and a higher risk of adverse health outcomes. Delirium exemplifies a geriatric syndrome because it is a cognitive impairment that can occur suddenly and is often triggered by multiple factors such as infections, medications, or metabolic imbalances. In older adults, the presence of delirium may signal significant underlying health issues and can lead to further complications or a decline in overall function.

The other options—such as asthma, pneumonia, and coronary artery disease—are more traditional diagnoses associated with specific pathophysiological processes. While these conditions can certainly be present in geriatric patients, they do not encompass the multifactorial nature and complexity typical of geriatric syndromes. In contrast, delirium highlights the interactions between various health issues and the increased susceptibility of older adults to such conditions, making it a hallmark of geriatric care.