The healthcare provider prescribes lithium carbonate for a client diagnosed with bipolar, manic depression. It is most important for the nurse to review which laboratory finding prior to beginning the drug therapy?
Alkaline phosphatase.
Blood glucose.
White blood count.
Serum creatinine.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale: Alkaline phosphatase is not typically associated with the monitoring of lithium therapy. The primary concern is renal function.
Choice B rationale: Blood glucose is not the most critical parameter to monitor before initiating lithium therapy. The focus is on renal function.
Choice C rationale: White blood count is not the primary laboratory value to assess before starting lithium. Renal function is more critical.
Choice D rationale: Serum creatinine is the most important laboratory finding to review before beginning lithium therapy. Lithium is primarily excreted by the kidneys, and impaired renal function can lead to lithium toxicity. Regular monitoring of renal function, including serum creatinine levels, is crucial to prevent adverse effects.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale: The nurse's response regarding watery eyes and diarrhea is not directly related to the client's concern about the medication's effect on blood glucose levels.
Choice B rationale: This response minimizes the potential side effects, which is not accurate. Second-generation antipsychotics are associated with metabolic side effects, including changes in blood glucose levels.
Choice C rationale: Offering an education sheet is helpful but does not directly address the client's specific concerns about the medication's impact on blood glucose levels.
Choice D rationale: This response acknowledges the client's concern, provides information about the general tolerability of the medication, and invites the client to share more about their specific worries. It encourages open communication and allows the nurse to address the client's concerns more effectively.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale: Providing information about available community resources is crucial during the discharge phase to support the client's transition to the community and ongoing care.
Choice B rationale: Exploring the client's feelings related to discharge is important, but providing practical information about available resources is more immediate and can aid in the client's continuity of care.
Choice C rationale: Asking the client to describe alternative coping mechanisms is relevant, but connecting the client with community resources is a more immediate concern during the discharge phase.
Choice D rationale: Discussing potential medication side effects is important, but linking the client to community resources takes precedence during the discharge process.
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