Bipolar Disorder

Heather Smith is a 40 year old female who came to the hospital because of being manic related to her bipolar disorder. She was brought to the hospital for a psychiatric evaluation and monitoring for her safety. She is manic and aggressive towards hospital staff.

Inpatient Hospital Room

1. Recognize the signs and symptoms of acute mania
2. Conduct a focused mental status exam, including thought process, mood, affect, insight, and safety risk assessment.
3. Use therapeutic communication techniques such as limit setting, redirection, and clear, concise language to maintain structure and promote safety.
4. Establish a calm, low-stimulation environment to help reduce escalation and overstimulation.
5. Administer mood stabilizers or antipsychotics safely, including monitoring for side effects and adherence.
6. Document behaviors, interventions, and responses thoroughly and appropriately in the EMR.

1. Accurately identify symptoms of mania and document findings using clinical language.
2. Apply de-escalation strategies and communicate respectfully and effectively with a patient exhibiting manic behaviors.
3. Administer prescribed medications while monitoring for adverse effects such as sedation, tremor, or GI upset.
4. Maintain patient and staff safety using observation, boundaries, and structured interaction.
5. Monitor for safety risks including impulsivity, aggression, or self-injurious behavior.
6. Provide brief, patient-centered education when appropriate and reinforce medication adherence in a nonjudgmental way.