A nurse is caring for a client diagnosed with bipolar II disorder. The client is experiencing a hypomanic episode. Which of the following symptoms is most consistent with this phase of bipolar disorder?

Choice A reason: Feelings of grandiosity are more characteristic of mania in bipolar I disorder. Hypomania in bipolar II involves milder elevated mood, energy, and confidence without extreme grandiosity, making this symptom less consistent with a hypomanic episode. Choice B reason: Total loss of interest in activities is a depressive symptom, not hypomania. Hypomanic episodes involve increased energy and engagement in activities, often with heightened productivity or creativity, making this inconsistent with the client’s current state. Choice C reason: Decreased need for sleep is a hallmark of hypomania in bipolar II, where clients feel rested after minimal sleep due to heightened energy from altered dopamine and norepinephrine activity. This is highly consistent with hypomanic episodes, distinguishing it from mania. Choice D reason: Severe depressive moods characterize the depressive phase of bipolar II, not hypomania. Hypomanic episodes involve elevated mood and energy, contrasting with the low mood and fatigue of depression, making this inconsistent.