Nadia has been diagnosed with bipolar disorder. Which is an outcome for Nadia in the continuation of treatment phase of bipolar disorder?
Patient will avoid involvement in self-help groups.
Patient will adhere to medication regimen.
Patient will demonstrate euphoric mood.
Patient will maintain normal weight.
The Correct Answer is B
Continuation phase of bipolar disorder treatment follows acute symptom stabilization and focuses on relapse prevention, medication adherence, and psychosocial recovery. This phase typically spans 4 to 9 months and aims to consolidate gains made during the acute phase. The most critical goal is ensuring adherence to pharmacologic therapy, as discontinuation is a major predictor of relapse. Psychosocial education, monitoring for side effects, and gradual reintegration into daily routines are emphasized. Mood stabilization—not euphoria—is the therapeutic target, and weight management is monitored but not prioritized over psychiatric stability.
Rationale for correct answer
2. Adherence to the medication regimen is the cornerstone of the continuation phase. It prevents recurrence of mood episodes and supports long-term stability, making it the most appropriate outcome for this phase.
Rationale for incorrect answers
1. Avoiding self-help groups contradicts supportive care principles. Peer support enhances coping and reduces isolation, especially during recovery phases.
3. Euphoric mood is a symptom of mania, not a desired outcome. The goal is mood stabilization, not emotional elevation, which may signal relapse.
4. While maintaining weight is beneficial, it is not the primary objective in the continuation phase. Psychiatric stability and medication adherence take precedence.
Take Home Points
- The continuation phase focuses on preventing relapse and reinforcing medication adherence.
- Mood stabilization—not emotional highs—is the therapeutic goal in bipolar disorder.
- Support groups and psychosocial interventions enhance recovery and reduce isolation.
- Physical health monitoring is important but secondary to psychiatric stabilization during continuation treatment.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Manic phase of bipolar disorder is characterized by elevated mood, disinhibition, and pressured speech, often resulting in inappropriate or profane language. Clients may lack insight and impulse control, making limit-setting essential. Therapeutic responses must balance recognition of the illness with behavioral boundaries to maintain safety and respect within the milieu.
Rationale for correct answer
3. Recognizing the behavior as part of the illness while setting limits maintains therapeutic boundaries and protects the dignity of all clients. It communicates that the nurse understands the psychiatric context but will not tolerate disruptive or offensive language.
Rationale for incorrect answers
1. This response is judgmental and lacks therapeutic value. It may escalate the client’s defensiveness and does not acknowledge the psychiatric basis of the behavior.
2. Ignoring vulgarity may reinforce inappropriate behavior and compromise the therapeutic environment. It fails to model boundaries or protect other clients from verbal aggression.
4. Withholding communication until the client complies is punitive and risks emotional withdrawal. It undermines rapport and may worsen manic symptoms due to perceived rejection.
Take Home Points
- Manic episodes often involve disinhibited speech and poor impulse control.
- Therapeutic limit-setting must acknowledge the illness while maintaining behavioral boundaries.
- Ignoring or punishing inappropriate language can escalate symptoms or damage rapport.
- Nurses must balance empathy with structure to preserve safety and therapeutic integrity.
Correct Answer is ["A","B","C","D","E"]
Explanation
Bipolar I disorder is a chronic psychiatric illness marked by alternating episodes of mania, depression, and periods of remission. Discharge planning must address both symptom management and psychosocial reintegration. Clients often face challenges in medication adherence, interpersonal relationships, and functional stability. A comprehensive support system is essential to reduce relapse risk and promote long-term recovery.
Rationale for correct answers
1. Financial and legal assistance supports clients with impaired judgment during manic episodes, which may result in debt, legal issues, or loss of employment. These services help stabilize external stressors that can trigger relapse.
2. Crisis hotlines provide immediate support during emotional distress or symptom recurrence. They are vital for early intervention and suicide prevention, especially during post-discharge adjustment.
3. Individual psychotherapy facilitates insight development, emotional regulation, and adherence to treatment plans. It is a cornerstone of long-term management for bipolar I disorder.
4. Support groups offer peer-based validation and shared coping strategies. They reduce isolation and promote accountability for treatment adherence and lifestyle adjustments.
5. Family education groups enhance understanding of the disorder, improve communication, and equip families to recognize early warning signs. This strengthens the client’s home support system and reduces hospitalization risk.
Take Home Points
- Discharge planning for bipolar I disorder must include clinical, emotional, and social support systems.
- Financial and legal services mitigate consequences of manic behaviors and promote stability.
- Crisis hotlines and psychotherapy provide immediate and ongoing emotional support.
- Family and peer-based interventions reduce isolation and improve treatment adherence.
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