A client diagnosed with bipolar disorder is distraught over insomnia experienced over the last 3 nights and a 12-pound weight loss over the past 2 weeks. Which should be this client's priority nursing diagnosis?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The priority nursing diagnosis for this client should be Altered nutrition: less than body requirements related to hyperactivity and weight loss. This is because the client has lost 12 pounds in the past 2 weeks and is experiencing hyperactivity, which may be contributing to the weight loss. Insomnia and concern about symptoms may be important, but they do not pose an immediate threat to the client's health and safety like altered nutrition does. Risk for suicide is also a concern but is not the priority in this particular case. Altered sleep patterns should be addressed but are not the priority.

A Client Diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder Is Distraught Over Insomnia