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 A
Explanation
This response acknowledges the client's request for the forms while also addressing the need to discuss the client's decision to leave treatment. It provides an opportunity for the nurse to explore the client's reasons for wanting to leave, discuss the potential consequences of leaving against medical advice, and address any concerns or fears the client may have about continuing treatment.
Option b is not appropriate because it does not address the potential risks associated with leaving treatment against medical advice.
Option c is also not appropriate because it does not acknowledge the client's request and is potentially misleading.
Option d is not appropriate because it does not address the client's reasons for wanting to leave or the potential consequences of leaving against medical advice.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
When a client is admitted with an involuntary status, it means that the client did not consent to the admission and was likely admitted due to being a danger to themselves or others. This can lead to increased stress and anxiety for the client, so the nurse should closely monitor the client for signs of severe anxiety and stress.
Options a, b, and d are not appropriate interventions for a client admitted with an involuntary status.
Option a is more appropriate for a client with a history of opioid use.
Option b is more appropriate for a client with a history of violence or aggression towards family members.
Option d is more appropriate for a client with a history of methamphetamine use.
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