A nurse is assessing a client in the manic phase of bipolar disorder. What should the nurse be particularly alert for during the assessment?

In the context of assessing a client in the manic phase of bipolar disorder, being alert for exhaustion is particularly relevant. During mania, individuals often exhibit heightened energy levels, reduced need for sleep, and an increased activity level. However, this hyperactivity can lead to significant physical and emotional exhaustion if not appropriately managed. As a result, clients may push themselves beyond their limits, leading to fatigue and exhaustion, which can further complicate their mental health status and increase the risk of a subsequent depressive episode.

While other options such as vertigo, gastritis, and bradycardia can occur in various medical conditions, they are not directly related to the manic phase of bipolar disorder. Vertigo and bradycardia are less common as primary concerns during mania, and gastritis, while possible due to stress or changes in eating habits, does not typically emerge as a prominent risk in this phase. Thus, vigilance for signs of exhaustion is essential in managing the holistic health of clients experiencing mania.