A male client with a recent diagnosis of bipolar disorder takes lithium carbonate daily. The client informed the school nurse of the desire to live away from home to attend college after graduating in one month. Which information is most important for the nurse to provide the client and his family?
A The client should plan to participate in group or individual therapy while at college.
The client's serum lithium levels should be routinely evaluated.
The client should be aware of the signs and symptoms of his illness.
Despite the illness, the client should be able to live away from home.
The Correct Answer is B
A. While participation in therapy may be beneficial, the most important consideration with lithium therapy is monitoring serum levels to ensure therapeutic efficacy and avoid toxicity.
B. Lithium therapy requires regular monitoring of serum levels to maintain therapeutic efficacy and prevent toxicity, especially during times of transition or stress such as starting college
C. While it is important for the client to be aware of the signs and symptoms of his illness, routine monitoring of serum lithium levels is more crucial for maintaining stability while living away from home.
D. While independence is a positive goal, the focus in this scenario should be on ensuring the client's safety and stability through appropriate monitoring of lithium levels.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Nausea and vomiting could indicate potential lithium toxicity, which requires immediate medical attention to prevent serious complications.
B. Short-term memory loss is a known side effect of lithium therapy but may not require immediate medical attention unless severe or persistent.
C. Weight gain is a common side effect of lithium, but a five-pound (2.3 kg) gain may not be considered significant enough to warrant immediate medical attention unless it occurs rapidly or is accompanied by other symptoms.
D. Depressed affect is a symptom of depression and may be related to the client's underlying condition but may not require immediate medical attention unless it poses a risk to the client's safety.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. While participation in therapy may be beneficial, the most important consideration with lithium therapy is monitoring serum levels to ensure therapeutic efficacy and avoid toxicity.
B. Lithium therapy requires regular monitoring of serum levels to maintain therapeutic efficacy and prevent toxicity, especially during times of transition or stress such as starting college
C. While it is important for the client to be aware of the signs and symptoms of his illness, routine monitoring of serum lithium levels is more crucial for maintaining stability while living away from home.
D. While independence is a positive goal, the focus in this scenario should be on ensuring the client's safety and stability through appropriate monitoring of lithium levels.
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