A patient with bipolar disorder is dressed in a red leotard and brightly colored scarves. The patient says, "I'll punch you, munch you, crunch you," while twirling and shadowboxing. Then the patient says gaily, "Do you like my scarves?

Question

Here…they are my gift to you." How should the nurse document the patient's mood?

a. Labile and euphoric
b. Irritable and belligerent
c. Highly suspicious and arrogant
d. Excessively happy and confident

Answer 1

ANS: A
The patient has demonstrated angry behavior and pleasant, happy behavior within seconds of each other. Excessive happiness indicates euphoria. Mood swings are often rapid and seemingly without understandable reason in patients who are manic. These swings are documented as labile. Irritability, belligerence, excessive happiness, and confidence are not entirely correct terms for the patient's mood. A high level of suspicion is not evident.