A nurse is caring for a client who is taking lithium carbonate (Lithobid) for bipolar disorder. Which of the following should the nurse monitor for as an adverse effect of this medication?
Hypertension
Hypotension
Hypernatremia
Hyponatremia.
The Correct Answer is D
Lithium carbonate can cause a range of side effects, including increased urination, mild thirst, and electrolyte imbalances. These effects can lead to hyponatremia, which is a low level of sodium in the blood. Hyponatremia can cause symptoms such as confusion, weakness, and muscle cramps.
Choice A is wrong because lithium carbonate does not cause hypertension (high blood pressure). In fact, it may lower blood pressure by reducing the activity of the renin-angiotensin system.
Choice B is wrong because lithium carbonate does not cause hypotension (low blood pressure) by itself. However, it may enhance the effects of other drugs that lower blood pressure, such as diuretics or antihypertensives.
Choice C is wrong because lithium carbonate does not cause hypernatremia (high level of sodium in the blood). On the contrary, it can cause sodium loss through increased urination and thirst. Hypernatremia can cause symptoms such as dehydration, irritability, and seizures.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Lithium carbonate can cause a range of side effects, including increased urination, mild thirst, and electrolyte imbalances. These effects can lead to hyponatremia, which is a low level of sodium in the blood.Hyponatremia can cause symptoms such as confusion, weakness, and muscle cramps.
Choice A is wrong because lithium carbonate does not cause hypertension (high blood pressure).In fact, it may lower blood pressure by reducing the activity of the renin-angiotensin system.
Choice B is wrong because lithium carbonate does not cause hypotension (low blood pressure) by itself.However, it may enhance the effects of other drugs that lower blood pressure, such as diuretics or antihypertensives.
Choice C is wrong because lithium carbonate does not cause hypernatremia (high level of sodium in the blood).On the contrary, it can cause sodium loss through increased urination and thirst.Hypernatremia can cause symptoms such as dehydration, irritability, and seizures.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
This is because lithium carbonate can cause fluid and electrolyte imbalance, especially when the client has vomiting and diarrhea.Drinking fluids can help maintain hydration and prevent lithium toxicity, which can cause tremors, confusion, nausea, and muscle weakness.
Choice A is wrong because stopping the medication abruptly can cause withdrawal symptoms and relapse of bipolar disorder.The client should continue taking the medication as prescribed and report any adverse effects to the provider.
Choice B is wrong because taking an extra dose of the medication can increase the risk of lithium toxicity, which can be life-threatening.The client should not adjust the dosage without consulting the provider.
Choice D is wrong because taking an antacid can alter the absorption of lithium carbonate and affect its blood levels.The client should avoid taking any other medications without consulting the provider.
Normal ranges for lithium carbonate are 0.6 to 1.2 mEq/L for maintenance therapy and 1.0 to 1.5 mEq/L for acute mania.The client should have regular blood tests to monitor the lithium levels and adjust the dosage accordingly.
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