A client admitted for injuries from a motor vehicle crash has a history of bipolar disorder for which he takes lithium. What is a major concern of the nurse?
Lithium toxicity is likely in the client’s treatment
Lithium is completely metabolized by the liver so liver function tests are indicated
Lithium requirements increase with stress so additional lithium may be required
Lithium has a very narrow therapeutic range so lithium levels should be obtained
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A reason: Lithium toxicity is a concern but not inevitable. It occurs with levels above 1.5 mEq/L, often due to dehydration or drug interactions, common in trauma settings. However, routine monitoring of levels is a more immediate nursing priority than assuming toxicity, as early detection prevents severe outcomes like seizures or renal damage.
Choice B reason: Lithium is primarily excreted by the kidneys, not metabolized by the liver. Liver function tests are not indicated for lithium monitoring, as it does not undergo hepatic metabolism. This statement is inaccurate, as renal function tests are critical to assess lithium clearance and prevent toxicity in trauma patients.
Choice C reason: Stress does not directly increase lithium requirements. Trauma-related dehydration or renal impairment can elevate lithium levels, risking toxicity, but this is due to reduced clearance, not increased need. This statement is inaccurate, as dosing adjustments should be based on serum levels, not stress alone.
Choice D reason: Lithium has a narrow therapeutic range (0.6-1.2 mEq/L), and trauma-related factors like dehydration or medications can alter levels, risking toxicity or subtherapeutic effects. Regular serum level monitoring is critical, especially in acute settings, to ensure safety and efficacy, making this statement accurate and a priority nursing concern.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Melena, dark tarry stools from digested blood, indicates upper gastrointestinal bleeding, not typically GERD. GERD involves acid reflux causing esophageal irritation, not bleeding severe enough for melena. This statement is inaccurate, as melena is more associated with ulcers or varices, not reflux disease.
Choice B reason: Heartburn, a burning sensation in the chest, is a hallmark of GERD, caused by stomach acid refluxing into the esophagus, irritating the mucosa. It results from lower esophageal sphincter dysfunction, allowing acid backflow. This statement is accurate, as heartburn is a primary diagnostic symptom of GERD.
Choice C reason: Hematemesis, vomiting blood, is not a common GERD symptom but indicates severe conditions like esophageal varices or ulcers. While chronic GERD may lead to esophagitis, bleeding is rare. This statement is inaccurate, as hematemesis is not a characteristic feature of typical GERD presentations.
Choice D reason: Dysphagia, difficulty swallowing, can occur in severe GERD due to esophageal strictures or motility issues but is not a primary characteristic. Heartburn is more common and diagnostic. This statement is less accurate, as dysphagia is a complication, not a defining feature of GERD.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: Inflammation and hematoma formation occur immediately after a fracture, initiating healing by recruiting immune cells and growth factors. However, this stage does not restore ‘normal’ bone structure, as it involves soft tissue response, not bone remodeling. This statement is inaccurate, as the bone remains structurally abnormal during this early phase.
Choice B reason: Callus formation, occurring 2-6 weeks post-fracture, involves soft and hard callus bridging the fracture. While critical, it represents a temporary, weaker structure, not ‘normal’ bone. Osteoblasts form a cartilaginous matrix, but full strength and normal bone architecture require further remodeling, making this statement less accurate.
Choice C reason: Woven bone formation, where osteoblasts convert callus into disorganized woven bone, marks progression toward normal bone structure. This bone is later remodeled by osteoclasts and osteoblasts into lamellar bone, restoring strength and architecture. This statement is accurate, as woven bone formation approaches ‘normal’ bone structure during healing.
Choice D reason: Osteoclast proliferation resorbs bone during remodeling but does not directly restore ‘normal’ bone. Excessive osteoclast activity could weaken the bone. Osteoblasts, not osteoclasts, drive the formation of woven and lamellar bone, making this statement inaccurate, as osteoclasts support remodeling, not normalization, of bone structure.
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