A nurse is reviewing the laboratory report of a client who has bipolar disorder prior to the administration of lithium carbonate. The client's lithium level is.6 mEq/L.
Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Assist the client to a left lateral position.
Implement fluid restrictions.
Request a dosage increase from the provider.
Prepare the client for hemodialysis.
The Correct Answer is C
- A. Assist the client to a left lateral position.
- This is generally used for clients at risk of aspiration, and it's not indicated based on the lithium level.
- B. Implement fluid restrictions.
- Fluid restrictions are usually implemented when there is a risk of fluid overload or hyponatremia, and not in this case. In fact, dehydration can raise lithium levels to toxic levels, so proper hydration is important.
- C. Request a dosage increase from the provider.
- While 0.6 mEq/L is within the therapeutic range, some providers may want to see a level slightly higher for maintenance. So requesting a dosage increase from the provider is the correct action.
- D. Prepare the client for hemodialysis.
- Hemodialysis is used to remove lithium from the blood in cases of severe lithium toxicity, which is indicated by levels significantly higher than 1.5 mEq/L. This is not needed when the lithium level is 0.6 mEq/L.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Methimazole is a medication used to treat hyperthyroidism, a condition where the thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone.
Bradycardia, or a slow heart rate, can be a sign that the client’s thyroid hormone levels have become too low, indicating that the dose of methimazole may need to be decreased.
Choice A is wrong because Exophthalmos, is not an indication for a lower dose of methimazole as it is a symptom of Graves’ disease itself and not related to the medication.
Choice B is wrong because Diaphoresis, or excessive sweating, is also not an indication for a lower dose of methimazole as it can be a symptom of hyperthyroidism.
Choice D is wrong because Weight loss, is also not an indication for a lower dose of methimazole as it can be a symptom of hyperthyroidism.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
This is because pioglitazone can cause fluid retention and edema.
Choice B is wrong because tinnitus (ringing in the ears) is not a common adverse effect of pioglitazone.
Choice C is wrong because insomnia (difficulty sleeping) is not a common adverse effect of pioglitazone.
Choice D is wrong because orthostatic hypotension (a drop in blood pressure when standing up) is not a common adverse effect of pioglitazone.
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