Final answer:
The priority safety-related outcome for a patient experiencing mania in bipolar disorder is preventing self-harm. This immediate concern is addressed before longer-term goals like enhancing cognitive function and maintaining social relationships.
Step-by-step explanation:
Safety-Related Outcome for a Patient Experiencing Mania
The priority safety-related outcome for a patient currently experiencing mania associated with bipolar disorder is B) Preventing self-harm. During manic episodes, individuals may engage in risky behaviors due to increased impulsivity, decreased need for sleep, and sometimes psychosis, which can put them at significant risk for self-harm or accidental injury. It is crucial to address these immediate safety concerns first to protect the individual's wellbeing.
Treatments such as psychotherapy, medication like the classes of antipsychotics or selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), and in more severe cases, interventions like electroconvulsive therapy or deep-brain stimulation, may be used to stabilize mood and behavior. However, during a manic phase, ensuring the individual's safety is the immediate concern.
After the manic episode, attention can shift to longer-term goals such as maintaining social relationships, enhancing cognitive function, and promoting physical exercise, which are crucial for overall recovery and wellbeing.