A nurse is discussing bias issues in mental health with a newly licensed nurse. Which of the following statements should the nurse include in the discussion?

A. Altered thought process related to hallucinations: While altered thought processes are common in manic episodes, hallucinations are not typically associated with mania in Bipolar I disorder. Hallucinations are more commonly seen in psychotic disorders.

B. Risk for violence related to poor impulse control and judgment: This is the correct priority diagnosis. During a manic episode, individuals may have impaired impulse control and poor judgment, increasing the risk of impulsive and potentially violent behaviors. Ensuring the safety of the client and others is the priority.

C. Altered thought process related to poor judgment: While altered thought processes and poor judgment are characteristic of mania, the specific concern in this scenario is the potential for violence. The risk for violence takes precedence as a priority nursing diagnosis.

D. Social isolation related to mania: Social isolation may be a concern, but the immediate priority is addressing the risk for violence, as it poses a more significant threat to the client and others during a manic episode.

A. fluoxetine (Prozac):

Fluoxetine is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) commonly used to treat depression and anxiety disorders. While SSRIs can have side effects, significant alterations in cardiac or cerebral electrical conductivity and fluid/electrolyte imbalance are not typically associated with fluoxetine. The primary concerns with SSRIs are related to serotonin levels and can include gastrointestinal disturbances, insomnia, and sexual dysfunction.

B. Lithium (Lithobid):

This is the correct answer. Lithium is known to have potential side effects related to cardiac and cerebral function, as well as fluid and electrolyte balance. Monitoring blood levels of lithium is crucial to avoid toxicity, which can affect the cardiovascular and central nervous systems. Lithium toxicity can lead to symptoms such as tremors, confusion, ataxia, and, in severe cases, seizures.

C. venlafaxine (Effexor):

Venlafaxine is a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) commonly used to treat depression and anxiety disorders. While it can cause some cardiovascular effects, the concern for significant alterations in cardiac or cerebral electrical conductivity and fluid/electrolyte imbalance is generally lower compared to lithium. The primary side effects of venlafaxine are related to serotonin and norepinephrine levels and may include increased blood pressure and heart rate.

D. clozapine (Clozaril):

Clozapine is an atypical antipsychotic medication used to treat schizophrenia. While antipsychotics can have side effects related to metabolic changes, significant alterations in cardiac or electrolyte imbalances are not typically associated with clozapine as the primary concern. Regular monitoring for metabolic side effects, such as weight gain and changes in lipid and glucose levels, is important with antipsychotic medications.