A nurse is caring for a client at a follow-up visit who has been taking lithium therapy for bipolar disorder.
Which of the following findings should indicate to the nurse that the client is experiencing lithium toxicity?
Hypoglycemia.
Excess salivation.
Urinary retention.
Dysrhythmia.
The Correct Answer is D
Dysrhythmia is an abnormal heart rhythm that can be a sign of severe lithium toxicity.
Lithium toxicity can occur when a person takes too much lithium, a mood- stabilizing medication used to treat bipolar disorder and major depressive disorder.
Choice A is wrong because hypoglycemia is not a symptom of lithium toxicity. Hypoglycemia is low blood sugar that can cause symptoms such as shakiness, sweating, hunger, and confusion.
Choice B is wrong because excess salivation is not a symptom of lithium toxicity. Excess salivation can be caused by various factors, such as infections, medications, or nerve damage.
Choice C is wrong because urinary retention is not a symptom of lithium toxicity. Urinary retention is the inability to empty the bladder completely, which can cause pain, discomfort, and infection. Lithium toxicity can actually cause increased urine output, not decreased.
Normal ranges for blood lithium levels are 0.6 to 1.2 mEq/L for maintenance therapy and 0.8 to 1.5 mEq/L for acute therapy. Levels above 1.5 mEq/L can cause mild to moderate toxicity, and levels above 2.0 mEq/L can cause severe toxicity. Levels above 3.0 mEq/L are considered a medical emergency.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Clean the cannula prongs daily.
This is because the nasal cannula can become contaminated with bacteria and mucus, which can cause infection and irritation of the nasal mucosa. Cleaning the cannula prongs daily with soap and water can prevent these complications.
Choice A is wrong because humidifiers can help moisten the dry oxygen and prevent nasal dryness and bleeding. Humidifiers should be used for oxygen flow rates higher than 4 L/min.
Choice B is wrong because the cannula prongs should be positioned curving downward in the nose, not upward. This allows for better alignment with the natural direction of airflow and reduces the risk of dislodgement.
Choice D is wrong because keeping the oxygen tubing off the floor is not a specific action for nasal cannula use. It is a general safety measure to prevent tripping and contamination of the tubing.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
The nurse should offer the client a milkshake because it is a high-calorie, high- protein, and easy-to-consume food that can meet the nutritional needs of a client who is in the manic phase of bipolar disorder. Clients who are manic often have increased activity, decreased appetite, and poor attention span, which can lead to weight loss and malnutrition.
Choice A is wrong because Creamed corn is wrong because it is a low-protein, high-carbohydrate food that can increase blood glucose levels and cause mood swings.
Choice B is wrong because Mashed potatoes is wrong because it is a low-protein, high-starch food that can also affect blood glucose levels and mood stability.
Choice C is wrong because Spaghetti with meat sauce is wrong because it is a complex food that requires utensils and attention to eat, which can be difficult for a client who is manic and distractible.
Normal ranges for potassium are 3.5 to 5.0 mEq/L.
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