A nurse is providing discharge teaching to a client who has bipolar disorder and will be discharged with a prescription for lithium. The nurse could teach the client which of the following factors puts her at risk for lithium toxicity?
A client runs 4 miles outdoors every afternoon.
The client eats 2 to 3 gm of sodium-containing foods daily.
The client drinks 2 liters of liquids daily.
The client eats foods high in tyramine.
The Correct Answer is A
A. Lithium is excreted through the kidneys, and dehydration and sodium depletion increase the risk of lithium toxicity. A client who runs 4 miles outdoors every afternoon is at risk of excessive sweating and fluid loss, which can lead to dehydration and sodium depletion. This reduces lithium excretion, leading to toxic levels in the blood.
B. A normal sodium intake helps maintain lithium balance. A low sodium intake increases lithium retention, but 2-3 grams/day is within the normal recommended range.
C. Adequate hydration helps prevent lithium toxicity. Clients on lithium should drink 2–3 liters of fluid daily to promote kidney function and lithium excretion.
D. Tyramine-rich foods (e.g., aged cheese, cured meats) are a concern for clients on monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), not lithium. Tyramine does not affect lithium levels.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["1.5"]
Explanation
To calculate the number of clozapine 200 mg tablets needed to administer a total of 300 mg, divide the total dose by the dose per tablet:
300 mg / 200 mg = 1.5 tablets
Since you cannot administer half of a tablet, you would need to administer 2 tablets to achieve a total of 300 mg.
So, the nurse should administer 2 tablets of clozapine 200 mg each to achieve a total dose of 300 mg.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. "It doesn't really matter what time you take your medications as long as you don't skip any doses."
While it's important not to skip doses, taking medications at specific intervals is often necessary for maintaining therapeutic blood levels and optimal treatment outcomes. Disregarding specific timing can affect the effectiveness of the medications.
B. "We'll have to talk to your provider about switching to an alternative schedule."
This response may not consider the client's preferences and might not be necessary if the client's current schedule can be adjusted to suit their routine. Collaboration between the nurse and the client is essential.
C. "You really shouldn't change the schedule we established here in the facility."
While continuity in medication schedules is important, if the established schedule doesn't align with the client's daily life, there should be flexibility to adjust it in a way that still maintains the effectiveness of the medications.
D. "Let's work together to devise a time schedule that is convenient for you on a daily basis."
Explanation: It's important to consider the client's lifestyle and routines when developing a medication schedule to ensure optimal adherence. Collaboratively working with the client to create a schedule that fits their daily activities increases the likelihood that they will consistently take their medications as prescribed.
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