What is the primary reason for monitoring lithium levels every two to three days until a therapeutic level is obtained?

To prevent symptoms of toxicity

To identify early signs and symptoms of relapse

To establish baseline liver function tests

To ensure the client is within the therapeutic range

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is A

A.   Lithium has a narrow therapeutic index, meaning the difference between a therapeutic dose and a toxic dose is small. Frequent monitoring allows for early detection of rising lithium levels, preventing toxicity.
B.   While monitoring lithium levels is important for overall treatment, it's not primarily used to identify relapse.
C.   Lithium primarily affects the kidneys, not the liver. Liver function tests are important for overall health monitoring but are not the primary reason for frequent lithium level checks.
D.   While this is a goal, the primary reason for such frequent monitoring is to prevent toxicity, which can occur rapidly.

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Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A. Making a suicidal individual feel foolish can increase their isolation and shame, potentially exacerbating suicidal thoughts. It's essential to approach the situation with empathy and understanding.
B. Establishing therapeutic rapport encourages open communication. By creating a safe and trusting environment, the caregiver can facilitate the client to express their thoughts and feelings about suicidal ideation. This information is crucial for assessing the client's risk and developing an appropriate care plan.
C. While feeling in control can be beneficial for some individuals, it's not the primary goal of establishing therapeutic rapport with suicidal clients. The focus should be on creating a safe space for open communication and understanding the client's perspective.
D. Enhancing self-worth is a long-term goal of therapy, but it's not the immediate focus when establishing rapport with a suicidal client. The priority is to address the immediate crisis and create a safe environment for open communication.

A. Teach the client how to perform relaxation techniques. B. Administer a PRN antianxiety medication. C. Ask the client what she was thinking about just before the attack began. D. Stay with the client in a quiet place.

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A. It is not the immediate priority during a panic attack. The client is currently in a state of heightened distress, and trying to teach new techniques at this moment may not be effective or practical.
B. Although administering PRN (as needed) antianxiety medication can be beneficial for managing symptoms, the immediate priority should be to ensure the client feels safe and supported. Medication may be used later in the process, but addressing the immediate needs and providing a calming environment is crucial first.
C. While understanding the client’s thought process can be helpful for therapeutic purposes and future treatment planning, asking about thoughts during an acute panic attack can be overwhelming and may not be the most supportive approach at that moment.
D. The first priority during a panic attack is to ensure the client feels safe and supported. Staying with the client in a quiet place helps reduce stimuli that could exacerbate the panic attack and provides reassurance.

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What is the primary reason for monitoring lithium levels every two to three days until a therapeutic level is obtained?

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

The caregiver works with suicidal clients to establish therapeutic rapport. The focused communications and concerned actions encourage suicidal persons to

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A nurse in an acute care mental health facility is caring for a client who begins to have a panic attack. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

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