Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 65%
Simulated
A nurse in an acute mental health unit is admitting a client diagnosed with bipolar disorder. The nurse recognizes which of the following findings supports the admitting diagnosis of acute mania?
Correct answer
A
Rationale
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Disorganized speech is a common symptom of acute mania in bipolar disorder. It is indicative of pressured speech, flight of ideas, and racing thoughts, which are characteristic of manic episodes. This finding aligns with the diagnostic criteria for acute mania.
Summary of Other Choices:
B: Hearing voices directing behavior may suggest psychosis, which can occur in bipolar disorder but is not specific to acute mania.
C: Weight gain is not a hallmark symptom of acute mania; it is more commonly associated with certain medications or depressive episodes.
D: Dressing in all black does not directly support the diagnosis of acute mania; it is not a specific symptom of this condition.
Rationale: Disorganized speech is a common symptom of acute mania in bipolar disorder. It is indicative of pressured speech, flight of ideas, and racing thoughts, which are characteristic of manic episodes. This finding aligns with the diagnostic criteria for acute mania.
Summary of Other Choices:
B: Hearing voices directing behavior may suggest psychosis, which can occur in bipolar disorder but is not specific to acute mania.
C: Weight gain is not a hallmark symptom of acute mania; it is more commonly associated with certain medications or depressive episodes.
D: Dressing in all black does not directly support the diagnosis of acute mania; it is not a specific symptom of this condition.