Exam 13: Bipolar and Related Disorders

Four new patients were admitted to the behavioral health unit in the past 12 hours. The nurse directs a psychiatric technician to monitor these patients for safety. Which patient will need the most watchful supervision? A patient diagnosed with

A patient diagnosed with bipolar disorder commands other patients, "Get me a book. Take this stuff out of here," and other similar demands. The nurse wants to interrupt this behavior without entering into a power struggle. Which initial approach should the nurse select?

A person was online continuously for over 24 hours, posting rhymes on official government websites and inviting politicians to join social networks. The person has not slept or eaten for 3 days. What features of mania are evident?

A person was directing traffic on a busy street, rapidly shouting, "To work, you jerk, for perks" and making obscene gestures at cars. The person has not slept or eaten for 3 days. Which assessment findings will have priority concern for this patient's plan of care?

At a unit meeting, the staff discusses decor for a special room for patients with acute mania. Which suggestion is appropriate?

A patient demonstrating characteristics of acute mania relapsed after discontinuing lithium. New orders are written to resume lithium twice daily and begin olanzapine. What is the rationale for the addition of olanzapine to the medication regimen? It will

A patient with diagnosed bipolar disorder was hospitalized 7 days ago and has been taking lithium 600 mg tid. Staff observes increased agitation, pressured speech, poor personal hygiene, and hyperactivity. Which action demonstrates that the nurse understands the most likely cause of the patient's behavior?

The exact cause of bipolar disorder has not been determined; however, for most patients

An outpatient diagnosed with bipolar disorder is prescribed lithium. The patient telephones the nurse to say, "I've had severe diarrhea for 4 days. I feel very weak and unsteady when I walk. My usual hand tremor has gotten worse. What should I do?" The nurse will advise the patient to

A nurse prepares the plan of care for a patient experiencing an acute manic episode. Which nursing diagnoses are most likely? (Select all that apply.)

A patient diagnosed with bipolar disorder becomes hyperactive after discontinuing lithium. The patient threatens to hit another patient. Which comment by the nurse is appropriate?

The plan of care for a patient in the manic state of bipolar disorder should include which interventions? (Select all that apply.)

An outpatient diagnosed with bipolar disorder takes lithium carbonate 300 mg three times daily. The patient reports nausea. To reduce the nausea most effectively, the nurse suggests that the lithium be taken with

Which dinner menu is best suited for a patient with acute mania?

A patient experiencing acute mania undresses in the group room and dances. The nurse intervenes initially by

A patient diagnosed with bipolar disorder is in the maintenance phase of treatment. The patient asks, "Do I have to keep taking this lithium even though my mood is stable now?" Select the nurse's appropriate response.

A patient experiencing acute mania dances around the unit, seldom sits, monopolizes conversations, interrupts, and intrudes. Which nursing intervention will best assist the patient with energy conservation?

A patient experiencing acute mania is dancing atop a pool table in the recreation room. The patient waves a cue in one hand and says, "I'll throw the pool balls if anyone comes near me." To best assure safety, the nurse's first intervention is to

Consider these three anticonvulsant medications: divalproex, carbamazepine, and gabapentin. Which medication also belongs to this classification?

A patient diagnosed with bipolar disorder will be discharged tomorrow. The patient is taking a mood stabilizing medication. What is the priority nursing intervention for the patient as well as the patient's family during this phase of treatment?