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

A. Anxiety is characterized by feelings of worry, fear, and apprehension about future events or uncertain outcomes. In this situation, the client's concerns about her husband's chronic illness diagnosis, his treatment, and financial implications (due to his inability to work) indicate that she is experiencing anxiety. These worries are typical responses to stressful life events and uncertainties.

B. Shock is a sudden and intense emotional reaction typically experienced immediately after a traumatic or unexpected event. While the client may initially experience shock upon hearing her husband's diagnosis, ongoing worry about treatment and financial concerns suggests a more prolonged state of anxiety rather than acute shock.

C. Withdrawal refers to a disengagement or retreat from social interactions or activities. There is no indication in the scenario that the client is withdrawing from social interactions. Rather, she is actively expressing concerns and seeking support, which is inconsistent with withdrawal.

D. Anger involves feelings of hostility, frustration, or resentment towards others or situations. While anger could potentially arise in response to the stressors described, the primary emotion expressed by the client in this scenario is worry and concern, which aligns more closely with anxiety than anger.

A. This response acknowledges the client's feelings of helplessness, which can validate her experience and promote further discussion about her emotions and challenges related to her eating disorder. It shows empathy and encourages the client to explore her feelings.

B. While this question is open-ended and invites the client to explore the underlying reasons for her behavior, it might inadvertently suggest that the client should have insights or control over her behavior that she may not currently possess. It could potentially make the client feel blamed or misunderstood if she cannot provide a clear answer.

C. This response is directive and judgmental, which can lead to the client feeling criticized or defensive. It does not acknowledge the complexity of the client's experience and may not be effective in building rapport or promoting trust between the nurse and client.

D This response acknowledges the client's self-awareness and validates her recognition of the problem, which can be empowering and supportive. It reinforces the positive step the client has taken in acknowledging the issue without placing blame or judgment.