A nurse reviews the laboratory report for a client who is receiving lithium three times daily PO. The client's current blood lithium level is 1.8 mEq/L. The nurse identifies that this lab value indicates which of the following?.
The lithium level is within the therapeutic level for initial treatment.
The lithium level is below the therapeutic treatment level.
The lithium level is at the toxic level.
A blood lithium level of 1.8 mEq/L is not within the maintenance treatment level.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale:
A lithium level of 1.8 mEq/L is above the therapeutic level for initial treatment (0.8 to 1.4 mEq/L)3.
Choice B rationale:
A lithium level of 1.8 mEq/L is above, not below, the therapeutic treatment level.
Choice C rationale:
A lithium level of 1.8 mEq/L is at the toxic level. A blood lithium level greater than 1.5 mEq/L indicates toxicity.
Choice D rationale:
A lithium level of 1.8 mEq/L is not within the maintenance treatment level (0.4 to 1.3 mEq/L)3.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
The client is displaying manifestations of lithium toxicity, which includes ataxia and blurred vision. Therefore, the nurse should withhold the medication.
Choice B rationale:
Administering the next dose as prescribed could potentially exacerbate the client’s symptoms and increase the risk of further toxicity.
Choice C rationale:
Propranolol is not typically used in the management of lithium toxicity.
Choice D rationale:
Levothyroxine is used to treat hypothyroidism and is not relevant in this context.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Asking “What are the voices telling you to do?” shows empathy and concern without validating the hallucination.
Choice B rationale:
Asking “Why do you think you are hearing the voices?” might imply that the nurse is validating the hallucination.
Choice C rationale:
Telling the client “You need to understand that there are no voices.”. might make the client feel misunderstood.
Choice D rationale:
Telling the client “You need to tell the voices to leave you alone.”. is not recommended as it might validate the hallucination.
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