A client with bipolar disorder is prescribed lithium carbonate (Lithobid). Which of the following laboratory values should be monitored regularly while taking this medication?
Blood glucose levels
Serum potassium levels
Serum lithium levels
Serum calcium levels.
The Correct Answer is C
Serum lithium levels should be monitored regularly while taking this medication because lithium has a narrow therapeutic range and can cause toxicity if the levels are too high or ineffective if the levels are too low. The normal range for serum lithium levels is 0.6 to 1.2 mEq/L (0.6 to 1.2 mmol/L).
Choice A is wrong because blood glucose levels are not affected by lithium and do not need to be monitored regularly.
Choice B is wrong because serum potassium levels are not affected by lithium and do not need to be monitored regularly.
Choice D is wrong because serum calcium levels are not affected by lithium and do not need to be monitored regularly.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
According to web search results, carbamazepine (Tegretol) can cause a serious skin reaction called Stevens-Johnson syndrome, which requires immediate medical attention.A rash is an early sign of this condition and should be reported to the health care provider as soon as possible.
Choice A is wrong because drowsiness is a common side effect of carbamazepine (Tegretol) and does not indicate a serious problem.However, the client should be advised to avoid driving or operating machinery until the drowsiness subsides.
Choice B is wrong because nausea and vomiting are also common side effects of carbamazepine (Tegretol) and can be minimized by taking the medication with food or milk.The client should be instructed to drink plenty of fluids and report any signs of dehydration or electrolyte imbalance.
Choice D is wrong because dry mouth is another common side effect of carbamazepine (Tegretol) and can be relieved by sucking on sugarless candy or ice chips, chewing sugarless gum, or using saliva substitutes.The client should also maintain good oral hygiene and have regular dental check-ups to prevent dental problems.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
You can stop taking the medication as long as you taper off gradually.
This is because lorazepam (Ativan) is a benzodiazepine that can cause physical dependence and withdrawal symptoms if stopped abruptly.Tapering off the dose reduces the risk of withdrawal and rebound anxiety or insomnia.
Choice B is wrong because continuing to take the medication indefinitely may increase the risk of tolerance, dependence, and adverse effects such as sedation, confusion, and memory impairment.
Choice C is wrong because stopping the medication immediately can cause severe withdrawal symptoms such as seizures, tremors, agitation, and hallucinations.
Choice D is wrong because switching to a non-benzodiazepine medication without tapering off lorazepam may not prevent withdrawal symptoms and may cause drug interactions or adverse effects from the new medication.
Normal ranges for lorazepam (Ativan) are 0.02 to 0.03 mg/kg/day divided into two or three doses for anxiety and 0.01 to 0.02 mg/kg at bedtime for insomnia.
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