A nurse is contributing to the plan of care for a client who has a new prescription for lithium. Which of the following interventions should the nurse recommend?
Decrease the client's dietary potassium.
Increase the client's daily caloric intake.
Monitor the client for hypoglycemia.
Administer the medication with meals.
The Correct Answer is D
A. Lithium can affect sodium and potassium balance in the body, but it does not specifically require a decrease in dietary potassium. Instead, sodium intake should be kept consistent because lithium excretion is influenced by sodium levels. Therefore, decreasing dietary potassium is not a recommended intervention.
B. Lithium can sometimes cause weight gain as a side effect. Increasing daily caloric intake is not a standard intervention when starting lithium. Clients should be encouraged to maintain a balanced diet and regular exercise regimen to manage potential weight changes.
C. Hypoglycemia is not a common side effect of lithium. Therefore, monitoring for hypoglycemia is not necessary when a client is taking lithium.
D. Administering lithium with meals can help reduce gastrointestinal side effects, such as nausea and upset stomach, which are common when starting the medication. It also helps with consistent absorption and reduces the peak serum concentration of lithium, which can minimize side effects and stabilize blood levels.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Dual diagnosis treatment programs are specifically designed for individuals who have both a mental health disorder (such as ASPD) and a substance use disorder (alcohol dependency in this case). These programs integrate treatment approaches that address both conditions concurrently. They typically involve a combination of medication management, psychotherapy, and support groups tailored to dual diagnosis clients. Encouraging the client to participate in a dual diagnosis treatment group can help address the complex interplay between ASPD and alcohol dependency.
B. Codependency support groups focus on relationships where one person may enable or support dysfunctional behavior in another person. While relevant in certain contexts, codependency support groups may not directly address the primary issues of ASPD and alcohol dependency. Therefore, this option is less appropriate compared to dual diagnosis treatment for this client.
C. Psychodrama is a form of therapy where clients act out real-life situations to explore and gain insights into their feelings, behaviors, and relationships. While psychodrama can be beneficial for emotional expression and role-playing, it may not directly target the core symptoms and challenges of ASPD and alcohol dependency. Therefore, it may not be the most effective intervention for this client compared to dual diagnosis treatment.
D. Crisis intervention focuses on immediate stabilization and support during a mental health crisis or acute episode. While crisis intervention may be necessary at times, it is not a comprehensive treatment approach for ASPD and alcohol dependency. Long-term management and therapeutic interventions, such as dual diagnosis treatment, are typically needed to address these chronic conditions effectively.
Correct Answer is ["A","B","C","D","E"]
Explanation
A. Lanugo refers to fine, soft hair that can develop on the face, back, and other parts of the body in response to malnutrition and low body fat. It is a compensatory mechanism to help regulate body temperature in individuals with severe weight loss, including those with anorexia nervosa. Therefore, the nurse should expect to find lanugo in a client with anorexia nervosa.
B. Cold extremities are a common finding in individuals with anorexia nervosa due to reduced body fat and poor circulation. The body's natural response to conserve heat is impaired when body fat is extremely low. Therefore, cold extremities are expected in clients with anorexia nervosa.
C. Hypotension, or low blood pressure, can occur in individuals with anorexia nervosa due to dehydration, electrolyte imbalances (such as low potassium levels), and reduced cardiac output. These conditions are often associated with severe malnutrition and can lead to cardiovascular complications. Therefore, hypotension is a potential finding in clients with anorexia nervosa.
D. Tooth erosion can result from frequent vomiting, which is a behavior sometimes seen in individuals with anorexia nervosa, particularly those with purging subtype (anorexia nervosa binge-eating/purging type). Stomach acid from vomiting can damage tooth enamel over time, leading to tooth erosion. Therefore, the nurse should expect to find tooth erosion in clients who engage in purging behaviors.
E. Diarrhea is less commonly associated with anorexia nervosa. Individuals with anorexia nervosa typically have reduced food intake, which can lead to constipation rather than diarrhea. However, in some cases, diarrhea can occur due to malnutrition-related changes in bowel function. It is not a consistent finding but can occasionally be observed.
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