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 B
Explanation
Encourage the client to visit with someone who has had an amputation.
This strategy can help the client cope with the loss of a body part and learn from the experience of others who have gone through a similar situation.
Choice A is wrong because suggesting that the client wear facility clothing until the prosthesis fitting can delay the client’s acceptance of the body image alteration and increase the risk of infection.
Choice C is wrong because discouraging the client from touching the residual limb for the first week can interfere with the healing process and prevent the client from becoming familiar with the new body part.
Choice D is wrong because reassuring the client that the rehabilitation program is optional can discourage the client from participating in physical therapy and hinder the recovery and adaptation.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Moist heat can help reduce pain and stiffness in the joints by increasing blood flow and relaxing the muscles. Moist heat can be applied using warm compresses, heating pads, or warm baths.
Choice A is wrong because using a recliner when sitting for long periods can increase pressure on the knees and decrease circulation. A better option is to use a straight-backed chair with a footstool.
Choice C is wrong because sleeping on a soft mattress can cause poor alignment of the spine and joints, which can worsen pain and mobility. A firm mattress is recommended for clients with osteoarthritis.
Choice D is wrong because placing large pillows under the knees when lying in bed can limit the range of motion of the knees and cause contractures. A small pillow under the knees can provide some support and comfort, but it should not be too large or too high.
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