A nurse is discussing the difference between mental illness and mental health with a newly licensed nurse. Which of the following statements by the newly licensed nurse indicates an understanding?

A. Concrete thinking: Concrete thinking refers to a style of thinking that is focused on immediate and literal aspects of information. The patient's statement involves more than concrete thinking; it includes an irrational belief about the consequences of contagious bacteria, indicating a distorted perception of reality.

B. Agitation: Agitation refers to a state of restlessness or increased activity. The patient's statement does not necessarily reflect agitation but rather a specific paranoid belief about the consequences of bacteria exposure.

C. Paranoia: This is the correct answer. Paranoia involves irrational thoughts and fears of being harmed or persecuted by others. The patient's belief that contagious bacteria are everywhere and will lead to being locked up with other infected people is indicative of paranoid ideation.

D. Poverty of thought: Poverty of thought is characterized by a lack of meaningful or detailed thought content. The patient's statement is not an example of poverty of thought; rather, it involves specific and elaborate content related to a paranoid belief.

Client diagnosed with hypomania who is speaking loudly on the unit: While hypomanic individuals may exhibit increased energy and talkativeness, the urgency is lower compared to a client expressing active suicidal ideations. This client does not pose an immediate threat to themselves or others.

B. Client diagnosed with mania who expressed active suicidal ideations: This is the correct answer. A client with active suicidal ideations is at an elevated risk and requires immediate attention. Suicidal thoughts in the context of mania can be impulsive, and prompt intervention is crucial to ensure the client's safety.

C. Client with a history of mania who is pacing in the hallway: Pacing may be a symptom of mania, but without additional information about the client's current state and any potential immediate risks, the client expressing active suicidal ideations takes precedence.

D. Client diagnosed with hypomania who is complaining of pain: Pain complaints, in the absence of other urgent factors, do not take precedence over active suicidal ideations. The risk of harm to oneself or others is a higher priority.