Page 2260 - Saunders Comprehensive Review For NCLEX-RN

cyclothymic disorder, and mixed
features.
c. Bipolar I disorder: Most severe form
characterized by severe mood episodes
from mania to depression.
d. Bipolar II disorder: A milder form of
mood elevation; there are milder
episodes of hypomania that alternate
with periods of severe depression.
e. Cyclothymic disorder: brief periods of
hypomanic symptoms occur
alternating with brief periods of
depressive symptoms that are not as
extensive or as long-lasting as seen in
full hypomanic episodes or full
depressive episodes.
f. Mixed features: the occurrence of
simultaneous symptoms of opposite
mood polarities during manic,
hypomanic or depressive episodes. It's
features are high energy, sleeplessness,
and racing thoughts. At the same time,
the individual may feel hopeless,
despairing, irritable, and suicidal.
g. The medication of choice has
traditionally been lithium carbonate,
which can be toxic and requires
regular monitoring of serum lithium
levels to help keep the medication’s
therapeutic index level appropriate; a
stable intake of adequate dietary
sodium and fluid (2 to 3 L daily) must
be maintained to avoid toxicity.
h. Other medications may be prescribed
both to reduce the symptoms of acute
bipolar manic episodes and for
maintenance therapy.
i. Antianxiety agents may be prescribed to
assist in managing the psychomotor
agitation characteristic of mania; these
medications should be avoided in
clients with a history of substance
abuse.
j. Atypical antipsychotic medications may
be prescribed for both their sedative
and mood-stabilizing effects.

2. Assessment

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