Bipolar Disorder and Psychiatric Nursing Flashcards

Practice questions on Bipolar Disorder symptoms (DIG FAST), medication management (Lithium, Valproic Acid), toxicity indicators (LMNOP), and patient education based on NCLEX high-yield concepts.

What are the components of the "DIG FAST" mnemonic for manic symptoms?

Distractibility, Impulsiveness, Grandiosity, Flight of ideas, Agitation, Sleep disturbances, and Talkative.

How is "Distractibility" defined in the context of mania?

Easily distracted.

How is "Impulsiveness" defined in the context of mania?

Poor judgement.

How is "Grandiosity" defined in the context of mania?

Sense of being better.

What characterizes "Flight of ideas" in bipolar patients?

Quickly changing ideas/throughts.

What characterizes "Sleep disturbances" in manic episodes?

Lack of sleep; patients can go days without sleep and do not notice they are tired.

What characterizes the "Talkative" symptom in mania?

Can talk nonstop.

What is the primary characteristic of Bipolar Disorder Type 1?

Hypermania ($DIG FAST$).

What is the primary characteristic of Bipolar Disorder Type 2?

Hypomania.

How is Hypomania described regarding intensity and social functioning?

Not as intense and these people are very high functioning in society.

What is the therapeutic range for Lithium?

$$0.6-1.2$$

At what level is Lithium toxicity typically reached?

$\sim 1.5$ or greater.

What causes the mnemonic "LMNOP" and what does it stand for?

Lithium toxicity; it stands for Movement Disorders, Nephrogenic Diabetes Insipidus, HypOthyroidism, and Pregnancy is contraindicated.

What specific fluid education should be provided to a patient taking Lithium?

Educate the patient to drink $2-3$ liters of water.

What is a major risk associated with Valproic Acid?

Risk for hepatotoxicity.

What education should be provided regarding Valproic Acid and consumption of other substances?

Avoid alcohol and acetaminophen (liver).

What are the common symptoms of manic episodes regarding appetite and weight?

Poor appetite and weight loss.

Besides medication, what are other treatments for Bipolar Disorder?

Electroconvulsive therapy and Psychotherapy.

What are the risk factors for Bipolar Disorder?

Drug or alcohol abuse, high stress, and having a first-degree relative with Bipolar Disorder.

Besides manic episodes, what other episodes are included in Bipolar Disorder?

Depression episodes.