A nurse is caring for a client who is experiencing acute mania related to bipolar disorder. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

Introduction: Acute mania involves hyperactivity and psychomotor agitation, requiring high-caloric intake via portable nutrition to sustain physiological needs while minimizing environmental stimuli to promote behavioral stabilization. A. Providing finger-foods is a priority intervention for a client in acute mania. These clients are often too hyperactive to sit down for a full meal and may experience significant weight loss or exhaustion. Finger-foods allow the client to consume necessary calories and nutrients while remaining mobile, maintaining their physical health. B. Giving caffeinated beverages like coffee is contraindicated for a client in acute mania. Caffeine is a central nervous system stimulant that can further exacerbate agitation, insomnia, and the racing thoughts associated with manic episodes. The goal of care is to decrease stimulation rather than increase it through pharmacological triggers. C. Keeping overhead lights on increases environmental stimulation, which can prolong or worsen a manic episode. The nurse should provide a low-stimulus environment, which includes dimming the lights, reducing noise levels, and limiting the number of people in the client’s immediate vicinity to help calm the hyperactive nervous system. D. Encouraging participation in group activities is inappropriate during the acute phase of mania. The high-stimulus environment of a group can be overwhelming for the client and disruptive to others. Initial interventions should focus on solitary activities that require less social interaction and focus until the client's behavior becomes more controlled.