A client began taking lithium for the treatment of bipolar disorder approximately one month ago. The client asks if it is normal to have gained 12 pounds in this time frame. Which is the appropriate nursing reply?
"Weight gain is a common but troubling side effect."
"What have you been eating? Weight gain is not usually associated with lithium."
"Weight gain occurs only during the first month of treatment with this drug."
"That's strange. Weight loss is the typical pattern."
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason: Weight gain is indeed a known side effect of lithium treatment, and acknowledging this can validate the client's experience.
Choice B reason: This response could be perceived as blaming and does not acknowledge that weight gain can be a side effect of lithium.
Choice C reason: This statement is misleading as weight gain can occur beyond the first month of treatment with lithium.
Choice D reason: This statement is incorrect as weight loss is not the typical pattern associated with lithium; weight gain is more common.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","B"]
Explanation
Choice A reason: Elevated prolactin levels can lead to galactorrhea, which is the production of breast milk in individuals who are not breastfeeding.

Choice B reason: Gynecomastia, the enlargement of breast tissue in males, can also be a symptom associated with high prolactin levels.
Choice C reason: Social withdrawal is a symptom of Schizophrenia but is not directly related to elevated prolactin levels.
Choice D reason: Apathy can be a symptom of Schizophrenia but is not directly related to elevated prolactin levels.
Choice E reason: Anhedonia is a symptom of Schizophrenia but is not directly related to elevated prolactin levels.
Correct Answer is ["B","D","E"]
Explanation
Choice A reason: Sharing personal feelings openly with the client can blur the professional boundaries necessary for a therapeutic relationship and is not typically encouraged.
Choice B reason: Establishing boundaries is crucial in maintaining a professional and therapeutic relationship, ensuring that both the nurse and client understand the limits and expectations of their interactions.
Choice C reason: While offering advice can be part of the therapeutic process, it is more important for the nurse to guide clients in finding their own solutions rather than providing direct advice.
Choice D reason: A therapeutic relationship should be professional and not based on personal feelings. The nurse's concern should be on the client's well-being rather than being liked.
Choice E reason: Maintaining a client focus at all times ensures that the care provided is centered on the client's needs, which is essential in a therapeutic relationship.
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