A client with bipolar disorder is prescribed lithium carbonate (Lithobid). Which of the following laboratory values should be monitored regularly while taking this medication?
Blood glucose levels
Serum potassium levels
Serum lithium levels
Serum calcium levels.
The Correct Answer is C
Serum lithium levels should be monitored regularly while taking this medication because lithium has a narrow therapeutic range and can cause toxicity if the levels are too high or ineffective if the levels are too low. The normal range for serum lithium levels is 0.6 to 1.2 mEq/L (0.6 to 1.2 mmol/L).
Choice A is wrong because blood glucose levels are not affected by lithium and do not need to be monitored regularly.
Choice B is wrong because serum potassium levels are not affected by lithium and do not need to be monitored regularly.
Choice D is wrong because serum calcium levels are not affected by lithium and do not need to be monitored regularly.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","C","D","E"]
Explanation
These are all possible signs ofneuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS), a rare but serious adverse effect of risperidone and other antipsychotic medications.
NMS is a life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical attention.It is characterized by fever, muscle rigidity, altered mental status, autonomic instability and elevated creatine kinase levels.
Choice B is wrong because polyuria is not a common side effect of risperidone.Polyuria can be caused by other conditions such as diabetes mellitus, diabetes insipidus or diuretic use.
Normal ranges for vital signs and laboratory values are as follows:
• Temperature: 36.5°C to 37.5°C (97.7°F to 99.5°F)
• Heart rate: 60 to 100 beats per minute
• Blood pressure: 120/80 mm Hg or lower
• Respiratory rate: 12 to 20 breaths per minute
• Oxygen saturation: 95% or higher
• Creatine kinase: 22 to 198 U/L for males and 10 to 171 U/L for females
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
This is because fatigue is a common side effect of SNRIs (serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors) that usually improves over time.SNRIs are a type of antidepressant that work by correcting chemical imbalances of neurotransmitters in the brain.
Choice A is wrong because Discontinue the medication immediately is wrong because abruptly stopping an SNRI can cause withdrawal symptoms such as nausea, headache, and dizziness.
The patient should consult with their provider before stopping or changing their medication.
Choice B is wrong because Increase the dose of the medication is wrong because increasing the dose of an SNRI can increase the risk of adverse effects such as high blood pressure, anxiety, and sexual dysfunction.
The patient should follow the prescribed dose and not adjust it without medical advice.
Choice D is wrong because Administer a stimulant medication is wrong because stimulant medications can interact with SNRIs and cause serious problems such as serotonin syndrome, which is a potentially life-threatening condition characterized by agitation, confusion, fever, and muscle rigidity. The patient should avoid taking any other medications without consulting their provider.
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