A client diagnosed with bipolar I disorder is exhibiting severe manic behaviors.A physician prescribes lithium carbonate (Eskalith)and olanzapine (Zyprexa).The client's spouse questions the Zyprexa order.Which is the appropriate nursing response?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Rationale: The nurse should explain to the client's spouse that olanzapine can calm hyperactivity until the lithium carbonate takes effect.Lithium carbonate may take 1 to 3 weeks to begin to decrease hyperactivity.Monotherapy with the traditional mood stabilizers like lithium carbonate,or atypical antipsychotics like olanzapine,has been determined to be the first-line treatment for bipolar I disorder.

A Client Diagnosed with Bipolar I Disorder Is Exhibiting Severe