It sounds like an unsettling and confusing experience, but it's important to approach it with understanding and care. Based on what you've shared, it's possible that your wife was experiencing some form of sleep disturbance or disorientation, which can happen during the night. This could have been a result of sleepwalking, a sleep disorder, or simply being in a state of confusion during a light sleep stage.

Here are a few things to consider:

1. Sleep Confusion: Sometimes people wake up briefly during the night in a confused state, which can lead to behaviors that don't make sense in the moment. This could explain her disoriented response and her actions. It's common for people to not fully remember these episodes in the morning.
2. Sleep Disorders: Certain sleep disorders, such as sleepwalking or night terrors, can lead to unusual behavior while asleep. If this is a one-time incident, it may not be something to be overly concerned about. However, if this type of behavior happens more frequently, it could be worth discussing with a doctor or sleep specialist.
3. Stress or Anxiety: Sometimes, emotional or psychological stress can lead to strange or erratic behaviors during sleep, as people may process unresolved emotions in their subconscious.
4. Communication: The best approach is to talk to her about it when she's awake and in a calm state. Let her know what happened and ask if she recalls anything or if she’s been having any trouble sleeping or feeling stressed. This could help provide more context and let you both address any underlying concerns.

It’s understandable that this situation could feel concerning, but in many cases, sleep-related behaviors are not necessarily a reflection of a deeper issue, especially if they don’t happen often. If it becomes a recurring pattern, it may be worth exploring further with a professional.