A nurse is teaching a client who has bipolar disorder about lithium. Which of the following statements should the nurse include in the teaching?
He will monitor your lithium levels closely while you are taking this medication."
This medication is addictive, so you will need to discontinue it in six months."
"Weight gain should be reported to your provider as an indication of lithium toxicity."
"Your provider may prescribe a diuretic if you have trouble urinating while taking lithium."
The Correct Answer is A
Lithium is a commonly used medication for treating bipolar disorder, and therapeutic drug monitoring is crucial to ensure its effectiveness and prevent potential toxicity. Monitoring the client's lithium levels in the blood is important because lithium has a narrow therapeutic range, meaning that levels that are too low might not provide the desired therapeutic effect, while levels that are too high can lead to toxicity.
B) "This medication is addictive, so you will need to discontinue it in six months."
Lithium is not considered addictive. It's important to provide accurate information about the nature of the medication to avoid unnecessary concerns.
C) "Weight gain should be reported to your provider as an indication of lithium toxicity."
While weight gain can be a side effect of some medications, it's not a specific indicator of lithium toxicity. Lithium toxicity is characterized by a range of symptoms including tremors, confusion, nausea, vomiting, and excessive thirst, among others.
D) "Your provider may prescribe a diuretic if you have trouble urinating while taking lithium."
Diuretics are generally not recommended with lithium because they can increase the risk of lithium toxicity. Lithium can affect kidney function, and using diuretics may exacerbate this effect. The client should be advised not to use diuretics without consulting their healthcare provider.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. "I need to make sure that the potential victim is warned."
Explanation: Correct Answer. When a client threatens to harm a specific individual, it's important to take steps to ensure the safety of both the client and the potential victim. Warning the potential victim or taking appropriate measures to protect them is an important action to take.
B. "I need to keep the information confidential due to the client's right to privacy."
Explanation: While respecting a client's right to privacy is important, when there's a threat of harm to an individual, it becomes a matter of safety that takes precedence over confidentiality.
C. "I can only discuss the client's threats with a court order."
Explanation: This statement is incorrect. When there's a credible threat to harm an individual, waiting for a court order is not an appropriate or timely response. Immediate actions should be taken to ensure safety.
D. "I should verbally report this information to the psychiatrist."
Explanation: While involving the psychiatrist is important for the client's overall care, it's essential to take more immediate steps to ensure the safety of the potential victim, such as notifying the appropriate authorities or taking appropriate precautions.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. An adolescent client who throws objects at other clients:
Explanation: Seclusion is contraindicated for this client due to safety concerns. The behavior of throwing objects at others indicates a potential danger to both the client and others in a confined space. Placing the client in seclusion could escalate the situation and potentially lead to further harm.
B. An older adult client who is manic and crying due to overstimulation:
Explanation: Seclusion might be contraindicated for this client as well. Older adults experiencing manic behavior and emotional distress could be further traumatized by seclusion. Alternatives like providing a calm and soothing environment, along with appropriate medications, might be more beneficial for this client.
C. A school-age client who attempts to repeatedly bite staff:
Explanation: Seclusion is a potential option for this client. The repeated attempts to bite staff pose a risk of physical harm to both the client and staff members. Seclusion might be used as a last resort to ensure the safety of everyone involved.
D. An adult client following a suicide attempt:
Explanation: Seclusion is generally contraindicated for clients who have attempted suicide. Placing them in isolation can worsen feelings of despair and isolation, potentially increasing the risk of self-harm or suicide. These clients require close monitoring, support, and therapeutic interventions to address the underlying issues.
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