A nurse in a mental health facility is reviewing the laboratory results of a client who is taking lithium carbonate.
Which of the following findings places the client at risk for lithium toxicity?
Aspartate aminotransferase 40 units/L.
WBC 6,000/mm3.
Sodium 132 mEq/L.
Calcium 10.0 mg/dL.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale:
Aspartate aminotransferase (AST) is not directly related to lithium toxicity. Elevated AST levels are indicative of liver dysfunction or damage, not lithium toxicity.
Choice B rationale:
White blood cell (WBC) count within the normal range (6,000/mm3) is not a specific indicator of lithium toxicity. It is essential to focus on electrolyte and renal function parameters when assessing lithium toxicity.
Choice C rationale:
Low serum sodium levels (132 mEq/L) can place the client at risk for lithium toxicity. Hyponatremia, often caused by lithium-induced nephrogenic diabetes insipidus, can lead to impaired lithium excretion and increased risk of toxicity.
Choice D rationale:
A calcium level of 10.0 mg/dL is within the normal range and is not directly associated with lithium toxicity. Lithium toxicity primarily affects sodium levels, as mentioned earlier.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
A client with a history of dependent personality disorder does not necessarily require close placement to the nurse's station for safety reasons. The primary concern in this case is not related to Alzheimer's or potential wandering, so placing this client closer to the nurse's station is not warranted.
Choice B Reason: A client who has moderate-stage Alzheimer’s disease.This client should be placed closest to the nurse’s station because individuals with moderate-stage Alzheimer’s disease may experience confusion, memory loss, and wandering, which can lead to safety concerns. Close proximity to the nurse’s station allows for better supervision and prompt intervention.
Choice C rationale:
A client with schizotypal personality disorder may have unique care needs, but these typically do not require placement close to the nurse's station. The primary concern in this case is not related to the safety or wandering associated with Alzheimer's disease.
Choice D rationale:
A client with a history of alcohol use disorder may require monitoring and support but does not necessarily need to be placed close to the nurse's station solely based on this history. The primary concern is not related to Alzheimer's disease or safety due to wandering. In a healthcare setting, clients with Alzheimer's disease often experience confusion and may wander, creating a risk of harm to themselves. Placing a client with moderate-stage Alzheimer's disease close to the nurse's station allows for better supervision and prompt response to any safety concerns. Therefore, it is the most appropriate choice for close placement. .
Correct Answer is ["A","B","E"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
(Statement then rationale) Choice A is one of the correct options. Lanugo, fine hair growth on the body, is a common physical finding in individuals with anorexia nervosa. It occurs as a result of the body's attempt to conserve heat due to a lack of subcutaneous fat and can be considered a clinical sign of severe malnutrition.
Choice B rationale:
(Statement then rationale) Choice B is another correct option. Bradycardia, or a slow heart rate, is often seen in individuals with anorexia nervosa. The body's physiological response to severe malnutrition includes a slowed heart rate to conserve energy. Bradycardia is a result of the reduced metabolic demands and is a common cardiovascular finding in anorexia nervosa.
Choice C rationale:
(Statement then rationale) Choice C is not the correct option. Diarrhea is not typically associated with anorexia nervosa. Instead, individuals with this condition may experience constipation due to a reduced intake of food and fiber. Diarrhea is more commonly associated with other gastrointestinal disorders or conditions.
Choice D rationale:
(Statement then rationale) Choice D is also not the correct option. Hypotension, or low blood pressure, is not a common finding in individuals with anorexia nervosa. In fact, individuals with severe malnutrition may initially have normal or even elevated blood pressure. Hypotension is more commonly associated with conditions like dehydration or certain cardiac issues.
Choice E rationale:
(Statement then rationale) Choice E is the third correct option. Russell's sign is a finding in individuals with anorexia nervosa who engage in self-induced vomiting. It refers to calluses or abrasions on the knuckles or dorsum of the hand, resulting from the repetitive contact with the teeth while inducing vomiting. Recognizing Russell's sign is essential for assessing the severity of purging behaviors in individuals with anorexia nervosa. .
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.