A nurse in a community mental health clinic is assessing a client who began taking lithium carbonate 5 days ago. The client reports fine hand tremors and has a current lithium level of 1.2 mEq/L. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

Instruct the client to consume a low-sodium diet to decrease hand tremors.

Teach the client to take the lithium in a single daily dose

Contact the provider for a possible decrease in the lithium dosage.

Encourage the client to take naproxen sodium to decrease tremors.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

A. Instruct the client to consume a low-sodium diet to decrease hand tremors:
While maintaining a stable sodium intake is important for individuals taking lithium to avoid fluctuations in lithium levels, a low-sodium diet is not specifically indicated to address hand tremors caused by lithium. Adjusting sodium levels is more about maintaining a consistent intake to stabilize lithium levels over time.

B. Teach the client to take the lithium in a single daily dose:
Lithium is often prescribed in divided doses to maintain stable blood levels throughout the day and minimize side effects. However, the dosing regimen (once or multiple times a day) is usually determined by the healthcare provider based on the individual's needs. Changing the dosing frequency is not the primary intervention for managing hand tremors.

C. Contact the provider for a possible decrease in the lithium dosage:
Hand tremors are a common side effect of lithium. If a client is experiencing bothersome side effects within the therapeutic range, the appropriate action is to contact the healthcare provider. The provider can assess the situation, possibly adjust the dosage, or explore other management options to alleviate the tremors while maintaining the therapeutic effect of the medication.

D. Encourage the client to take naproxen sodium to decrease tremors:
Encouraging the client to take naproxen sodium or any other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) is not recommended when the client is on lithium therapy. NSAIDs can interact with lithium, potentially leading to increased lithium levels and toxicity. Combining these medications should be avoided.

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Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A. Seat the client at a dining table with six or more residents:
People with Alzheimer's disease often experience sensory overload in crowded and noisy environments. Large dining tables with multiple residents can be overwhelming for someone with Alzheimer's, leading to increased confusion and discomfort. It's more beneficial to seat them in a smaller, quieter setting to reduce stress and promote a more relaxed dining experience.

B. Use symbols to assist the client in locating rooms:
Individuals with Alzheimer's disease frequently have difficulties with memory and orientation. Using symbols or visual cues can aid them in understanding and remembering locations, reducing confusion and promoting independent movement within the facility or home.

C. Provide the client with several choices for meal selection:
While offering choices is generally a good practice, individuals with Alzheimer's disease may find it challenging to process too many options. Providing limited, clear choices can help prevent decision-making difficulties and reduce frustration. Too many choices can overwhelm them, leading to indecision and potential agitation.

D. Give complete directions before starting client care:
Providing complete and lengthy directions can overwhelm individuals with Alzheimer's disease. They may have difficulty processing complex instructions due to cognitive impairment. It's more effective to give simple, step-by-step directions and provide assistance as needed. Additionally, using gentle reminders and cues can support their understanding and cooperation without overwhelming them with too much information at once.

A. Recent head injury B. Hepatitis B infection C. Hypothyroidism D. Knee arthroplasty 1 month ago

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A. Recent head injury:
A recent head injury is a potential concern when considering the prescription of bupropion. Bupropion can lower the seizure threshold, and head injuries might increase the risk of seizures. Therefore, it's important to report a recent head injury to the healthcare provider to assess the client's suitability for bupropion.

B. Hepatitis B infection:
Hepatitis B infection is not a contraindication for bupropion. However, the healthcare provider should be aware of the client's full medical history, including hepatitis B infection, to ensure appropriate monitoring and management, especially if the client is taking other medications or has liver function concerns.

C. Hypothyroidism:
Hypothyroidism, a condition where the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormones, is not a contraindication for bupropion. However, the healthcare provider should be aware of this condition to monitor the client appropriately, as thyroid function can influence the metabolism of medications.

D. Knee arthroplasty 1 month ago:
Knee arthroplasty (knee replacement surgery) performed one month ago is not a direct contraindication for bupropion use. However, the provider should be informed of recent surgeries or procedures, especially if the client is taking medications or undergoing physical therapy, to ensure there are no potential drug interactions or complications related to the recent surgery. It's essential to monitor for signs of infection or other complications post-surgery.

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A nurse in a community mental health clinic is assessing a client who began taking lithium carbonate 5 days ago. The client reports fine hand tremors and has a current lithium level of 1.2 mEq/L. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

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