A client who is being treated with lithium carbonate for bipolar disorder type I begins to develop diarrhea, vomiting, and drowsiness. Which action should the registered nurse take?
Select one:
Hold the medication and refuse to administer additional doses for 3 days.
Notify the health care provider immediately and give 4 liters of fluids.
Prior to giving the next dose, notify the health care provider of these symptoms and hold the next dose until new orders from provider.
Document the client's symptoms and continue with medication as prescribed.
The Correct Answer is C
Diarrhea, vomiting, and drowsiness are potential signs of lithium toxicity, which can be a serious and potentially life-threatening condition. If a client who is being treated with lithium carbonate develops these symptoms, the nurse should notify the health care provider immediately and hold the next dose of medication until new orders are received from the provider.
Option a. Hold the medication and refuse to administer additional doses for 3 days is not an appropriate action because it does not involve notifying the health care provider or obtaining new orders.
Option b. Notify the health care provider immediately and give 4 liters of fluids is not an appropriate action because it involves administering fluids without obtaining orders from the health care provider.
Option d. Document the client’s symptoms and continue with medication as prescribed is not an appropriate action because it does not involve notifying the health care provider or holding the next dose of medication.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
The Industry versus Inferiority stage occurs during the ages of 6 to 12 years old. At this stage, children start to develop a sense of competence and work towards mastering new skills. Success during this stage leads to a sense of pride, while failure leads to feelings of inferiority.
Chronic illness can interfere with a child's ability to develop a sense of competence and mastery, leading to feelings of failure and inferiority. This can have a negative impact on their self-esteem and overall development.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Schizophrenia is a severe mental illness associated with an increased risk of suicide. Individuals with schizophrenia are at a higher risk of suicide due to the presence of symptoms such as depression, hopelessness, and social isolation. Unemployment is also a risk factor for suicide as it can contribute to financial and social stress.
The other options do have some risk factors, but not as high as the individual in option c. Alcohol use and being independent-minded are not necessarily significant risk factors for suicide, and being active in church can be a protective factor. While depression is a significant risk factor for suicide, it is not the only factor, and having two best friends may be a protective factor. Diabetes, in and of itself, is not a risk factor for suicide.
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