A charge nurse is teaching a group of nurses about the antagonist action of medications. The nurse should include in the teaching that which of the following antagonist medications is used for benzodiazepines?

A. "You will need to take this medication on an empty stomach."

Lithium is typically taken with food to minimize gastrointestinal side effects. Instructing the client to take it on an empty stomach would be incorrect.

B. "You will need to stop this medication if you experience diarrhea."

Diarrhea is not typically a reason to stop lithium therapy. However, persistent diarrhea can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances, which may affect lithium levels. It's essential for the client to report persistent diarrhea to their healthcare provider for further evaluation and management.

C. "You will need to consume a low-salt diet while on this medication."

A low-salt diet is not typically recommended with lithium therapy. In fact, lithium can cause sodium depletion, so it's important for clients to maintain adequate salt intake unless otherwise instructed by their healthcare provider.

D. "You will need your blood levels drawn weekly during the first month."

This statement is correct. Monitoring serum lithium levels is crucial to ensure the medication's effectiveness and prevent toxicity. Initially, frequent monitoring is necessary to establish the appropriate dosage and assess for any signs of toxicity. Weekly blood level checks during the first month of therapy are common practice.

Answer: (B, C, D, E)

Rationale:

A) Damp dressing: A damp dressing around the IV site is typically indicative of a leaking IV or infiltration, where fluid escapes from the vein into the surrounding tissue. This finding is not directly related to phlebitis, which is inflammation of the vein.

B) Warmth at insertion site: Warmth at the insertion site is a common sign of phlebitis. The inflammation of the vein causes increased blood flow to the area, leading to localized warmth. This symptom is a key indicator that the IV site may be irritated or infected.

C) Streak formation: Streak formation, often seen as a red line running along the vein above the IV site, is a classic sign of phlebitis. It indicates inflammation and irritation spreading along the vein, which can occur due to the presence of the IV catheter.

D) Throbbing: Throbbing pain or discomfort at the IV site is another sign of phlebitis. The inflammation of the vein can cause pain that may be constant or increase with movement or palpation, indicating irritation or potential damage to the vessel.

E) Erythema: Erythema, or redness at the IV site, is a hallmark sign of phlebitis. The inflammation results in redness around the insertion area, which may spread along the vein, further indicating the presence of irritation or infection at the site.