ATI LPN
Test Bank for Psychiatric Nursing: Contemporary Practice
Chapter 24 : Bipolar Disorders: Management of Mood Lability Questions
Question 1 of 5
A client with bipolar disorder has a lithium drug level of 1.2 mEq/L. Which of the following would the nurse expect to assess? Select all that apply.
Correct Answer: A,C,F
Rationale: A lithium level of 1.2 mEq/L is within the therapeutic range (0.6?1.2 mEq/L) but at the upper limit, where mild side effects like metallic taste (
A), diarrhea (
C), and muscle weakness (F) may occur. Ataxia (
B), slurred speech (
D), and fasciculations (E) are more typical of toxicity (>1.5 mEq/L).
Question 2 of 5
The nurse is preparing a teaching plan for the family of a client who has been diagnosed with bipolar disorder. After teaching them about potential indicators for relapse, the nurse determines that the teaching was effective when they identify which of the following as suggesting mania? Select all that apply.
Correct Answer: C,E
Rationale: Mania is characterized by rapid speech (
C) and multitasking behaviors like reading multiple books simultaneously (E), reflecting increased energy and distractibility. Avoiding people (
A) and sleeping more (
B) suggest depression, and constant hunger (
D) is not specific to mania.
Question 3 of 5
A client with bipolar disorder has had a history of multiple episodes and states, I?m so frustrated with what?s happened because of these episodes. Which of the following would the nurse encourage to help support this client?s recovery?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Encouraging hope (
B) fosters resilience and motivation for recovery in bipolar disorder, countering frustration. Codependence (
A) is unhealthy, self-control (
C) is important but less primary, and independent decision-making (
D) may be impaired during episodes.
Question 4 of 5
A client diagnosed with bipolar disorder and experiencing mania is admitted to the inpatient psychiatric setting. During the acute phase of mania, which medication would the nurse expect to most likely administer?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Haloperidol (
B), a typical antipsychotic, is commonly used in acute mania to rapidly control severe agitation, impulsivity, and psychotic symptoms due to its fast-acting nature. Lithium (
A) is effective for long-term mood stabilization but slower in acute mania. Fluoxetine (
C) and paroxetine (
D), SSRIs, are used for depression, not mania, and may worsen manic symptoms.
Question 5 of 5
A client asks the nurse if he needs to alter any of his activities because he is taking lithium carbonate. Which of the following responses would be most appropriate?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Lithium levels can increase to toxic levels with dehydration from heavy perspiration, as sodium loss affects lithium excretion. Increasing salt intake (
A) during such activities helps maintain safe lithium levels. Sunscreen (
B) is unrelated, reducing fluid (
C) risks toxicity, and no changes (
D) ignores the risk of dehydration.