A nurse is caring for a client who is taking lithium and reports experiencing lethargy, muscle weakness, and blurred vision. Which of the following responses should the nurse make?
"These symptoms will improve over time."
"You will need to have your blood drawn."
"You should decrease your intake of sodium."
"Continue the medication as prescribed."
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason: Telling the client that the symptoms will improve over time without further assessment could be misleading. These symptoms could indicate lithium toxicity, which requires immediate medical attention.
Choice B reason: Lethargy, muscle weakness, and blurred vision can be signs of lithium toxicity. The nurse should recommend blood tests to check lithium levels and kidney function to rule out toxicity.
Choice C reason: Decreasing sodium intake is not recommended without a healthcare provider's advice, as sodium levels can affect lithium levels in the body. Sudden changes in sodium intake should be avoided unless directed by a healthcare provider.
Choice D reason: Continuing the medication as prescribed without addressing the symptoms could be dangerous. The symptoms reported by the client need to be evaluated to ensure they are not due to lithium toxicity.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: While discussing the client's diagnosis with their family could be part of the care process, it does not address the client's immediate concern about the quality of care they are receiving. This response does not validate the client's feelings or provide an opportunity for them to elaborate on their concerns.
Choice B reason: Telling the client that their feelings are part of anticipatory grieving may be true, but it can come across as dismissive and does not offer support for the specific issue the client has raised about the quality of care.
Choice C reason: Assuring the client that the nurses are trying to provide good care does not acknowledge the client's perception of inadequate care. It's important to validate the client's feelings and understand their perspective before offering reassurances.
Choice D reason: Asking the client to elaborate on their concerns shows empathy and a willingness to listen. It allows the nurse to gather more information about the client's experience and identify specific areas that may need improvement in the care provided.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: Taking a 1-hour nap every day is not recommended for individuals with sleep disruptions, especially due to depressive disorder, as it can further disrupt nighttime sleep patterns.
Choice B reason: Exercising late in the day can be stimulating and may make it harder to fall asleep. It is generally advised to exercise earlier in the day to improve sleep quality.
Choice C reason: Keeping a sleep diary is a beneficial intervention for individuals with sleep disruptions. It can help identify patterns and behaviors that affect sleep and is a step towards establishing a consistent sleep schedule.
Choice D reason: Discontinuing medication without medical advice is not safe. Medications for depressive disorder should be managed by a healthcare provider, especially as abrupt changes can have serious consequences.
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