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","B","C","D"]
Explanation
Social withdrawal: This is a common symptom as individuals may avoid social interactions and isolate themselves due to ongoing distress.
Prepared by Brandel
B) Exaggerated startle response: Individuals may have an increased startle reflex following trauma, which can persist over time.
C) Intrusive thoughts: These are unwanted and distressing thoughts related to the trauma that can continue to affect the individual.
D) Avoidance of places associated with the assault: This behavior is a protective mechanism to prevent re-experiencing the traumatic event.
E) Overeating: Overeating is not a characteristic sequalae of rape trauma. F) Hallucinations: Hallucinations are not typically associated with long-term symptoms of rape trauma syndrome. Hallucinations can occur in severe cases, particularly if there are co-occurring mental health disorders such as PTSD.
Correct Answer is {"dropdown-group-1":"A","dropdown-group-2":"A"}
Explanation
Rationale:
In the context of mental health care, a statement by a client expressing a wish to have died in a traumatic event is indicative of suicidal ideation. This is a serious concern and warrants immediate and careful attention from the healthcare provider. The appropriate response involves conducting a thorough assessment of risk factors for suicide, which may include evaluating the client's mental health history, current stressors, support systems, and any previous suicide attempts or self-harm behavior. This assessment is crucial in determining the level of risk and the need for potential interventions, which may range from close monitoring to emergency psychiatric evaluation. It is essential for healthcare professionals to approach such situations with sensitivity, providing support and ensuring the safety of the client as a priority.
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