Question

A client diagnosed with acute mania is admitted to the psychiatric unit for stabilization. Which client is the most suitable roommate for a client with mania? A. A client with paranoid schizophrenia B. A client with antisocial personality disorder C. A client with anorexia nervosa D. A client with situational depression

Short answer

Answer: The most suitable roommate for a client with acute mania is likely to be a client with situational depression, as this choice presents the least conflict potential and risk of harm among the options provided.

Step-by-step solution

Understand Acute Mania

Acute mania is a symptom of bipolar disorder characterized by episodes of high energy, elevated mood, and agitation. During these episodes, individuals may sleep less, engage in risky behavior, and exhibit poor judgment. Therefore, it is essential to pair the client with a roommate who will not exacerbate these symptoms or create additional challenges within the shared living environment.

Evaluate Option A – Paranoid Schizophrenia

Paranoid schizophrenia is a subtype of schizophrenia characterized by delusions and hallucinations, often involving themes of persecution or grandiosity. This individual may have difficulty distinguishing reality from fantasy and may become suspicious, irritable, or hostile. Pairing this client with someone experiencing acute mania may lead to conflicts due to their heightened agitation and impulsivity.

Evaluate Option B – Antisocial Personality Disorder

Antisocial personality disorder is characterized by a consistent pattern of disregard for, and violation of, the rights of others. This individual may exhibit aggressive behavior, manipulate others, and display a lack of empathy. Pairing a client experiencing acute mania with an individual who has antisocial personality disorder may result in a combustible living situation due to the increased likelihood of conflicts and aggression.

Evaluate Option C – Anorexia Nervosa

Anorexia nervosa is an eating disorder characterized by extreme food restriction, a persistent fear of gaining weight, and a distorted body image. Individuals with this disorder typically exhibit a strong desire for control and may have difficulty managing stress. While this client may not necessarily be an ideal roommate for someone with acute mania, they are less likely to engage in aggressive or hostile behaviors compared to those with paranoid schizophrenia or antisocial personality disorder.

Evaluate Option D – Situational Depression

Situational depression, also known as adjustment disorder with depressed mood, is a short-term emotional response to a specific stressful event or situation, such as a significant life change or loss. This individual is likely to experience feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and decreased interest in activities but generally does not display aggressive or hostile behaviors. While there could be challenges in pairing a client with acute mania with someone experiencing situational depression, this option might cause the least amount of conflict and potential harm among the available choices.

Determine the Most Suitable Roommate

Based on the descriptions of each disorder, the most suitable roommate for a client with acute mania is likely to be Option D, a client with situational depression. This choice presents the least conflict potential and risk of harm, and both clients may benefit from a calm and supportive living environment as they work towards stabilization.