Prior to administering the evening dose of carbamazepine, the nurse noted that the client’s morning carbamazepine level was 8.4 mg/L. Which action should the nurse take?
Withhold this dose of carbamazepine.
Notify the healthcare provider of the carbamazepine level.
Assess the client for side effects of carbamazepine.
Administer the carbamazepine as prescribed.
The Correct Answer is D
A carbamazepine level of 8.4 mg/L is within the therapeutic range of 4-12 mg/L. The nurse should administer the evening dose of carbamazepine as prescribed. The nurse should continue to monitor the client’s carbamazepine levels and assess for any side effects of the medication.

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Continuous rubbing of the back of the neck can be a side effect of antipsychotic medication, known as acute dystonia. Benztropine is an anticholinergic medication that can effectively treat acute dystonia. Therefore, the nurse should give a PRN prescription for benztropine to relieve the client's discomfort. Options a, b, and d do not address the underlying issue of acute dystonia and are not the best interventions for this particular situation.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Lithium carbonate is a mood stabilizer commonly used to treat bipolar disorder. However, it has a narrow therapeutic index and requires careful monitoring of serum levels to avoid toxicity. One of the major concerns with lithium therapy is the potential for drug interactions and toxicity. NSAIDs such as ibuprofen and naproxen can increase lithium levels by reducing its excretion and can lead to lithium toxicity. Therefore, it is essential to instruct the client to eliminate the use of NSAIDs while taking lithium.
Option b) Avoid consuming all foods that contain iodine is incorrect because iodine is not contraindicated with lithium. However, excessive iodine intake can interfere with thyroid function, which can exacerbate mood instability.
Option c) Notify healthcare provider prior to dental procedures is not specific to lithium therapy and is a general precaution that patients with bipolar disorder should follow before any medical or dental procedures.
Option d) Monitor blood glucose levels daily is also not directly related to lithium therapy. While lithium can cause diabetes insipidus, which can lead to excessive thirst and urination, it does not typically affect blood glucose levels.
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