A nurse is providing discharge instructions to a client who has been prescribed Lithium for bipolar disorder. Which of the following statements by the client indicates a need for further teaching?
"I should maintain a consistent sodium intake in my diet."
"I should have regular blood tests to monitor my lithium levels."
"It's important to restrict my fluid intake while taking this medication."
"I need to report any signs of nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea to my doctor."
The Correct Answer is C
A. "I should maintain a consistent sodium intake in my diet.": Sodium levels directly affect lithium levels in the body. Fluctuations in sodium intake can lead to lithium toxicity or subtherapeutic effects. A consistent sodium intake helps maintain stable lithium blood levels.
B. "I should have regular blood tests to monitor my lithium levels.": Lithium has a narrow therapeutic range and can become toxic if levels rise too high. Regular monitoring is essential to ensure safe and effective treatment, especially during dose adjustments or illness.
C. "It's important to restrict my fluid intake while taking this medication.": This statement is incorrect and indicates a need for further teaching. Fluid restriction can lead to dehydration, increasing lithium reabsorption in the kidneys and raising the risk of toxicity. Clients should maintain adequate hydration, especially during hot weather or illness.
D. "I need to report any signs of nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea to my doctor.": These are early signs of lithium toxicity. Prompt reporting is crucial so that lithium levels can be checked and treatment adjusted to prevent progression to severe toxicity.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. "I should rinse my mouth with water and swallow it after using the inhaler.": Swallowing the rinse water may still allow corticosteroid particles to enter the systemic circulation through the gastrointestinal tract, increasing the risk of systemic effects and oral thrush.
B. "I will rinse my mouth only if I feel irritation after using the inhaler.": Rinsing should be done routinely after each use, regardless of the presence of irritation. Skipping this step can increase the risk of developing oral candidiasis (thrush) due to residual corticosteroid in the mouth.
C. "I will rinse my mouth with water and spit it out after using the inhaler.": Rinsing and spitting helps remove residual corticosteroid from the oropharynx, reducing the risk of local side effects like oral thrush and hoarseness.
D. "There is no need to rinse my mouth after using an inhaled corticosteroid.": This indicates a lack of understanding. Failure to rinse the mouth increases the risk of fungal infections and other local adverse effects due to prolonged exposure to the medication.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. "Avoid alcohol while taking this medication as it may increase drowsiness.": Baclofen is a central nervous system depressant and can cause sedation. Alcohol can intensify this effect, increasing the risk of severe drowsiness, dizziness, or respiratory depression.
B. "You can abruptly stop taking this medication if you don't notice improvement.": Abrupt discontinuation of Baclofen can lead to withdrawal symptoms such as hallucinations, seizures, and rebound spasticity. The medication should be tapered under medical supervision.
C. "Baclofen doesn't cause drowsiness, so you can continue your normal activities without any restrictions.": Baclofen often causes drowsiness and dizziness, especially when therapy is initiated. Patients should be cautious with activities requiring alertness, such as driving.
D. "Take this medication only when you experience muscle spasms:": Baclofen is typically taken on a regular schedule to maintain therapeutic levels and control muscle spasms continuously. It is not used on an as-needed basis.
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