A 24-year-old female client completed the Mood Disorder Questionnaire (MDQ) and scored 7. What does this score indicate to a PMHNP?

Choice A reason: While question 2 on the MDQ asks if the symptoms occurred during the same time period, the score of 7 already indicates a threshold number of symptoms for potential bipolar disorder, so it alone can trigger further evaluation. Choice B reason: The functional impact question helps determine severity, but scoring 7 symptoms suggests the presence of significant mood symptoms regardless of perceived impact, warranting evaluation. Choice C reason: A score of 7 meets the screening threshold for possible bipolar disorder. This indicates that the patient should undergo a more thorough clinical evaluation to confirm or rule out the diagnosis. Choice D reason: The score itself is sufficient to suggest the need for further evaluation, so it is incorrect to state that the score does not warrant follow-up.