The nurse is caring for an adolescent with bipolar disorder who ...

[WhattoUnderstand]

The nurse is caring for an adolescent with bipolar disorder who has expressed the desire to harm self. What is the priority nursing diagnosis for this client?
 
  A) Powerlessness related to mood instability
  B) Impaired Social Interaction
  C) Risk for Suicide
  D) Social Isolation related to disorder

Question 2

The nurse is planning care for an adolescent client experiencing the manic phase of bipolar disorder. Which intervention would address hallucinations?
 
  A) Encourage spending time with others.
  B) Discuss a homework assignment.
  C) Keep isolated in a quiet room.
  D) Explain that hallucinations are not real.

[ngr69]

Answer to Question 1

Answer: C

The priority for an adolescent with bipolar disorder and suicidal ideas is safety. Risk for Suicide is the nursing diagnosis that would address safety for the client. The other diagnoses have a lower priority and can be addressed once safety has been ensured.

Answer to Question 2

Answer: D

The adolescent client in the manic phase of bipolar disorder experiencing hallucinations should not be left alone in a quiet room but rather should be talked with and explained that the hallucinations are not real. The nurse should not discuss homework assignments or encourage the client to spend time with others. The hallucinations need to be addressed.