The nurse prepares to administer lithium, a mood stabilizing drug, to a patient. Which laboratory result should first be assessed?
Serum creatinine
Serum troponin I and T levels
Fasting blood glucose level
Serum lipid profile
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale: Before administering lithium, the nurse should assess serum creatinine levels. Lithium is excreted by the kidneys, and impaired renal function can lead to lithium toxicity.
Choice B rationale: Serum troponin I and T levels are markers of cardiac damage and are not directly related to lithium therapy.
Choice C rationale: Fasting blood glucose level is not specifically related to the assessment needed before administering lithium.
Choice D rationale: Serum lipid profile is not directly related to the assessment needed before administering lithium.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale: A blood pressure reading of 130/80 mmHg is within the normal range and would not be a priority to report.
Choice B rationale: Expiratory wheezing is a potential adverse effect of propranolol, especially in patients with a history of asthma or other respiratory conditions. It should be reported promptly to the provider.
Choice C rationale: Hunger and thirst are not typically associated with adverse effects of propranolol.
Choice D rationale: A pulse of 98 beats/min is within the normal range and would not be a priority to report.

Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale: Physical dependence is a state where the body has adapted to the presence of the opioid, and abrupt cessation may lead to withdrawal symptoms. However, the patient's statement indicates tolerance more than physical dependence.
Choice B rationale: The patient is at risk for tolerance, which is the need for an increased dose of a substance to achieve the same effect. This is common in chronic opioid therapy.
Choice C rationale: Abstinence syndrome is another term for withdrawal syndrome, and this is more associated with sudden cessation of opioids.

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