Assessment of a client reveals severe and sudden mood swings from mania to depression. Which diagnosis should the nurse suspect?

B. This is the correct priority action. Serotonin syndrome can be life-threatening if not promptly recognized and treated. The physician needs to be notified immediately so that appropriate actions can be taken to manage the client's symptoms and potentially adjust the medication regimen.

A. Aspirin is not appropriate for treating serotonin syndrome. Monitoring the client's symptoms is important, but this action does not address the potential seriousness of the symptoms described.

C. Delaying notification could lead to worsening of symptoms and potential complications. Given the potential seriousness of serotonin syndrome, waiting until it's convenient is not appropriate.

D. While headache, palpitations, and stiffness could potentially be side effects of antidepressant medication, the combination of these symptoms raises concern for serotonin syndrome, which requires immediate medical attention rather than reassurance alone.

D. Bipolar disorder is characterized by episodes of mania or hypomania (elevated, expansive, or irritable mood, increased energy, racing thoughts) alternating with episodes of depression (sadness, loss of interest, low energy). The mood swings can be severe, and the transition between mood states can occur suddenly.

A. Major depressive disorder is characterized by persistent feelings of sadness and loss of interest or pleasure in activities. It does not involve manic or hypomanic episodes, which are essential for diagnosing bipolar disorder.

B. Dysthymic disorder involves chronic, low-grade depression that lasts for at least two years. It does not typically present with episodes of mania or hypomania.

C. Personality disorders involve enduring patterns of behavior, cognition, and inner experience that deviate markedly from the expectations of the individual's culture. While some personality disorders can present with mood instability, the description of severe and sudden mood swings from mania to depression is not characteristic of personality disorders in general.