A client who is prescribed lithium carbonate is being discharged from inpatient care. Which medication information should the nurse teach this client?
Have serum lithium levels checked every 6 months.
Adjust the dose if you feel out of control.
Do not reduce normal dietary sodium intake.
Limit fluid intake to 1,000 mL of fluid per day.
The Correct Answer is C
C. Sodium intake can influence lithium excretion and affect serum lithium levels. Maintaining a consistent and adequate sodium intake is important for stabilizing serum lithium levels and optimizing the medication's therapeutic effects.
A. Patients should have their serum lithium levels checked regularly, typically every 3 months, not just every 6 months as suggested.
B. Clients should never adjust their lithium dose without consulting their healthcare provider. Lithium dosage adjustments should be made only under the guidance and supervision of a healthcare professional based on the client's clinical response, serum lithium levels, and overall treatment plan.
D. Adequate hydration is essential for overall health and well-being, and dehydration can increase the risk of lithium toxicity.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Lithium carbonate is a medication commonly used to treat bipolar disorder. Symptoms of lithium toxicity can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, muscle weakness, tremors, and flu-like symptoms. If a client is experiencing these symptoms after taking lithium carbonate, it could indicate lithium toxicity
B. Lithium is a mood stabilizer, and tolerance, in the sense of needing increasing doses to achieve the same effect, is not commonly observed.
C. Suddenly stopping lithium carbonate can lead to withdrawal symptoms, but the symptoms described— nausea, diarrhea, muscle weakness, and tremors—are more indicative of toxicity rather than withdrawal.
D. Tyramine is a compound found in certain foods and beverages, and interactions between tyramine-rich foods and certain medications, such as monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), can lead to hypertensive crises. However, lithium carbonate is not known to have interactions with tyramine-rich foods.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
C. Alcohol withdrawal can lead to dehydration due to symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and increased urination. Replacing fluids is important to prevent dehydration and maintain electrolyte balance.
A. Orienting the individual to reality involves helping them understand their current situation and surroundings. While this is an important aspect of nursing care, it may not be the highest priority during the initial phase of alcohol withdrawal.
B. Social support is vital for individuals undergoing alcohol withdrawal, as it can provide emotional reassurance and assistance during a challenging time. However, during the initial phase of withdrawal, the highest priority is typically addressing immediate physiological needs.
D. Restraints should only be used as a last resort and in situations where there is an imminent risk of harm to the individual or others.
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