Final answer:
The manic phase of bipolar disorder is characterized by flight of ideas and inflated self-esteem, which are indicative of increased energy or activity levels during a manic episode.
Step-by-step explanation:
The nurse knows that the manic phase of bipolar disorder is typically marked by symptoms such as flight of ideas and inflated self-esteem. These symptoms reflect a period of significantly elevated, expansive, or irritable mood, accompanied by increased energy or activity level, which are characteristic of a manic episode. Additional signs of mania include decreased need for sleep, talkativeness, distractibility, increase in goal-directed activity or psychomotor agitation, and excessive involvement in activities with a high potential for painful consequences.