A family member tells the nurse, "I am concerned about my brother. He has been acting very different lately." Knowing the family has a history of bipolar disorder, the nurse inquires further about this. Which behavior during the past week might indicate that the brother has bipolar disorder?
Intense focus.
Showing low self-esteem.
Taking unnecessary risks.
Sleeping more.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A reason: Intense focus can occur in certain mental health conditions, but in bipolar disorder, especially during manic episodes, the hallmark is distractibility and impulsivity rather than sustained focus.
Choice B reason: Low self-esteem is more characteristic of depressive disorders. While bipolar disorder includes depressive phases, the question emphasizes recent behavioral changes, and risk-taking is more indicative of mania.
Choice C reason: Taking unnecessary risks is a classic sign of mania in bipolar disorder. Manic episodes often involve impulsive behaviors such as reckless spending, unsafe sexual activity, or dangerous driving. This aligns directly with the diagnosis.
Choice D reason: Sleeping more is associated with depression, not mania. In mania, individuals typically sleep less but still feel energized.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason:This is incorrect because 50-100 mEq/L is far above the therapeutic range and would be toxic.
Choice B reason:This is incorrect because 10-50 mEq/L is also excessively high and unsafe.
Choice C reason:This is correct because the therapeutic serum lithium level for maintenance is 0.5-1.5 mEq/L. Levels above 1.5 mEq/L increase the risk of toxicity, while levels below 0.5 mEq/L may be ineffective for mood stabilization.
Choice D reason:This is incorrect because 0.1-1 mEq/L is too low, with the lower end being subtherapeutic.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: Crying loudly when requests are denied is more consistent with histrionic personality disorder, where individuals display exaggerated emotional responses to gain attention. It does not reflect the core features of avoidant personality disorder.
Choice B reason: Showing no remorse after harming another person’s property is characteristic of antisocial personality disorder, where disregard for others’ rights and lack of guilt are common. This is not aligned with avoidant personality disorder.
Choice C reason: Multiple failed marriages may be associated with borderline personality disorder due to unstable relationships and fear of abandonment. It is not a defining feature of avoidant personality disorder.
Choice D reason: Avoidant personality disorder is characterized by hypersensitivity to criticism, fear of rejection, and social inhibition. The observation that the client fears criticism from staff directly supports this diagnosis, as it reflects the pervasive anxiety and avoidance behaviors typical of the disorder.
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