A client prescribed lithium carbonate 300 mg twice daily a month ago comes to the Emergency Department with mental confusion, frequent urination in large amounts, and coarse tremors. Which lithium level would the nurse expect?

Choice A Reason: Childhood Depression

Childhood depression is characterized by persistent sadness, irritability, and a lack of interest in activities. While it can lead to behavioral issues, it does not typically include the aggressive and antisocial behaviors described in the scenario. The symptoms of childhood depression include changes in sleep patterns, appetite, and energy levels, but these do not align with the client’s history of running away and abusive behavior towards parents.

Choice B Reason: Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD)

ODD is marked by a pattern of angry, irritable mood, argumentative, defiant behavior, or vindictiveness. While children with ODD may be defiant and hostile towards authority figures, the behaviors described in the scenario, such as running away and engaging in illegal activities like prostitution, are more severe and align more closely with Conduct Disorder. ODD does not typically involve the violation of societal norms to the extent seen in this case.

Choice C Reason: Conduct Disorder

Conduct Disorder is characterized by a repetitive and persistent pattern of behavior that violates the rights of others or major age-appropriate societal norms or rules. This includes aggressive behavior towards people and animals, destruction of property, deceitfulness or theft, and serious violations of rules. The client’s history of running away, abusive behavior towards parents, and involvement in illegal activities like prostitution strongly suggests Conduct Disorder. This diagnosis is supported by the presence of multiple behavioral issues that are severe and pervasive.

Choice D Reason: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

ASD is a developmental disorder that affects communication and behavior. Individuals with ASD may have difficulty with social interactions, exhibit repetitive behaviors, and have restricted interests. While ASD can sometimes be associated with challenging behaviors, it does not typically include the antisocial and aggressive behaviors described in the scenario. The client’s history of running away and abusive behavior is not characteristic of ASD.

Choice A Reason: 0.8 mEq/L

The therapeutic range for lithium is typically between 0.6 and 1.2 mEq/L. A level of 0.8 mEq/L falls within this range and is considered normal. Therefore, it is unlikely that a client with this lithium level would present with symptoms such as mental confusion, frequent urination, and coarse tremors. These symptoms are more indicative of lithium toxicity, which occurs at higher levels.

Choice B Reason: 2.3 mEq/L

A lithium level of 2.3 mEq/L is significantly above the therapeutic range and indicates lithium toxicity. Symptoms of lithium toxicity include mental confusion, frequent urination, and coarse tremors, which match the client’s presentation. Severe toxicity can occur at levels above 2.0 mEq/L and can be life-threatening if not treated promptly. Therefore, this is the most likely lithium level for the client described.

Choice C Reason: 1.8 mEq/L

A lithium level of 1.8 mEq/L is above the therapeutic range but below the level typically associated with severe toxicity. While some symptoms of toxicity might appear at this level, they are generally less severe than those described in the scenario. The client’s symptoms suggest a more severe level of toxicity, making this choice less likely.

Choice D Reason: 1.2 mEq/L

A lithium level of 1.2 mEq/L is at the upper limit of the therapeutic range. While it is possible for some mild side effects to occur at this level, the severe symptoms described (mental confusion, frequent urination, and coarse tremors) are more indicative of a higher, toxic level of lithium. Therefore, this choice is also less likely.