A nurse identifies that the environment is important when caring for a client with hypomanic episodes. What should the nurse do when caring for clients with this disorder?

Choice A reason : A nagging cough can be a warning sign of cancer, particularly lung cancer. If a cough persists for weeks or longer, especially if it's accompanied by blood or sputum, it should be evaluated by a healthcare professional. Persistent coughing can also be symptomatic of laryngeal or thyroid cancer¹.

Choice B reason : A nonhealing sore that persists for more than a few weeks can be a sign of skin cancer, including melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, or squamous cell carcinoma. It's also a common sign of oral cancer, especially in individuals who use tobacco or consume excessive alcohol¹.

Choice C reason : A change in moles or other skin lesions can be an early indication of skin cancer. The ABCDE rule is a guide to the usual signs of melanoma, looking for Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Color changes, Diameter greater than 6mm, and Evolving size, shape or color².

Choice D reason : While bloating can be caused by many benign conditions, persistent bloating that doesn't go away can be a sign of ovarian or other types of abdominal cancers. It's important to consider this symptom in conjunction with other signs and symptoms¹.

Choice E reason : A change in bowel pattern, such as persistent diarrhea or constipation, can indicate colorectal cancer. Any significant changes in bowel habits that do not resolve over time warrant medical evaluation¹.

Choice A reason: Encouraging interaction with others by having the client share a room might be overwhelming for a client experiencing hypomanic episodes. Hypomania can involve irritability and impulsivity, making shared spaces potentially stressful. It's important to balance social interaction with the need for a controlled environment¹.

Choice B reason: Providing a calm atmosphere by placing the client in a private room can be beneficial for someone experiencing hypomanic episodes. A private room can reduce overstimulation and help manage symptoms like restlessness, agitation, and sleep disturbances. It allows the client to have a quiet space to retreat to, which can be crucial in managing mood swings¹².

Choice C reason: While a cheerful environment may seem beneficial, having bright drapes in the client's room could potentially contribute to overstimulation. Clients with hypomania are often sensitive to environmental stimuli, so it's important to keep the setting subdued to avoid exacerbating symptoms¹.

Choice D reason: Promoting access to activities by assigning the client to a room near the dayroom can be a double-edged sword. While it facilitates engagement in structured activities, which can be therapeutic, it also increases the risk of overstimulation due to the proximity to a potentially busy and noisy area. Careful consideration of the client's current state is necessary when making this decision¹.