A 30-year-old male client is admitted to the psychiatric unit with a diagnosis of bipolar disorder. For the last 2 months, his family describes him as being “on the move,” sleeping 3C4 hours nightly, spending lots of money, and losing approximately 10 lb.
During the initial assessment with the client, the nurse would expect him to exhibit which of the following?
A . Short, polite responses to interview questions
B . Introspection related to his present situation
C . Exaggerated self-importance
D . Feelings of helplessness and hopelessness
Answer: C
Explanation:
(A) During the manic phase of bipolar disorder, clients have short attention spans and may be abusive toward authority figures.
(B) Introspection requires focusing and concentration; clients with mania experience flight of ideas, which prevents concentration.
(C) Grandiosity and an inflated sense of self-worth are characteristic of this disorder.
(D) Feelings of helplessness and hopelessness are symptoms of the depressive stage of bipolar disorder.