A nurse is assessing a client who has bipolar disorder and is experiencing a depressive episode.
Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?
A.
Client reports auditory hallucinations.
B.
Client expresses illusions of grandeur.
C.
Moves quickly from one idea to the next.
D.
Inability to carry out a simple task.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
The correct answer is:
D. Inability to carry out a simple task.
Explanation:
In bipolar disorder, the client experiences mood swings that include episodes of mania and depression. During a depressive episode, symptoms align more closely with what is typically seen in major depressive disorder. These symptoms can significantly affect the client’s functioning and behavior.
Here’s a closer look at why option D is the correct answer:
- Inability to Carry Out a Simple Task (Option D): During a depressive episode, individuals with bipolar disorder may experience significant reductions in energy, motivation, and concentration. This leads to difficulties in performing everyday tasks. The cognitive and physical symptoms of depression, such as fatigue, slowed thinking, and impaired executive function, make it challenging for clients to complete tasks that might otherwise be straightforward. This symptom reflects the profound impact of depression on a person’s ability to function and is consistent with the characteristics of a depressive episode in bipolar disorder.
- Client Reports Auditory Hallucinations (Option A): Auditory hallucinations are more commonly associated with manic or psychotic episodes rather than depressive episodes in bipolar disorder. While psychosis can occur in bipolar disorder, the presence of hallucinations typically suggests a more severe or different aspect of the illness rather than a standard depressive episode.
- Client Expresses Illusions of Grandeur (Option B): Illusions of grandeur are indicative of a manic or hypomanic episode, not a depressive one. These delusions involve an exaggerated sense of self-importance or power, which is contrary to the self-critical and diminished self-esteem seen in depressive episodes.
- Moves Quickly from One Idea to the Next (Option C): This symptom is characteristic of a manic episode, where the client experiences racing thoughts and a rapid flow of ideas. In contrast, depressive episodes are marked by slowed cognitive processes, not the rapid ideation seen in mania.
In summary, the inability to carry out simple tasks is a hallmark of the decreased energy and impaired cognitive function associated with a depressive episode in bipolar disorder. It reflects the struggle that individuals face in managing everyday responsibilities due to their mood state.