Asked by Jericka Lucio on Oct 01, 2024

A patient with diagnosed bipolar disorder was hospitalized 7 days ago and has been taking lithium 600 mg tid. Staff observes increased agitation, pressured speech, poor personal hygiene, and hyperactivity. Which action demonstrates that the nurse understands the most likely cause of the patient's behavior?

A) Educate the patient about the proper ways to perform personal hygiene and coordinate clothing.
B) Continue to monitor and document the patient's speech patterns and motor activity.
C) Ask the health care provider to prescribe an increased dose and frequency of lithium.
D) Consider the need to check the lithium level. The patient may not be swallowing medications.

Lithium Level

The concentration of lithium in the bloodstream, monitored in patients treated with lithium for bipolar disorder to prevent toxicity.

Increased Agitation

A heightened state of irritability or restlessness, often leading to increased unease or aggressive behaviors.

Pressured Speech

Rapid and incessant talk that is often a symptom of an underlying mental health condition, making it difficult to interrupt the speaker.

  • Elucidate the reasoning behind the use of pharmacotherapy in the treatment of bipolar disorder and its accompanying behaviors.
  • Explain the consequences of not following prescribed medication treatments in bipolar disorder and methods to mitigate this issue.