A nurse is caring for a client who has a new prescription for lithium carbonate. Prior to administering the first dose, which of the following laboratory values should the nurse evaluate?
Arterial blood gases
Total cholesterol
Thyroid hormones
Hemoglobin
The Correct Answer is C
A. Arterial blood gases - Arterial blood gases are not typically assessed before initiating lithium carbonate therapy.
B. Total cholesterol - Total cholesterol levels are not specifically relevant to monitoring lithium therapy.
C. Thyroid hormones - Thyroid function should be assessed before initiating lithium therapy because lithium can affect thyroid function, potentially leading to hypothyroidism.
D. Hemoglobin - While hemoglobin levels may be monitored during lithium therapy, they are not typically assessed prior to initiating treatment.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
- Choice A: The recommended hepatitis vaccine series is not a series of four. The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommends a three-dose series for hepatitis B vaccination.
- Choice B: Hepatitis B is not typically transmitted by contaminated food. It is primarily spread through direct contact with infectious blood, semen, or other body fluids.
- Choice C: While there is some evidence suggesting a link between chronic hepatitis C infection and an increased risk of renal cell carcinoma, the statement is not universally accepted as fact and more research is needed to establish a definitive connection.
- Choice D: Individuals with a history of hepatitis B or C are generally ineligible to donate blood due to the risk of transmission of these bloodborne viruses.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. A blood glucose level of 120 mg/dL is within the expected range for a client receiving total parenteral nutrition and does not require immediate intervention.
B. A serum sodium level of 138 mEq/L is within the normal range and does not require immediate intervention.
C. An oral temperature of 37.6°C (99.7°F) is slightly elevated but may be within the client's normal range and does not require immediate intervention unless accompanied by other signs of infection.
D. A weight increase of 2 kg (4.4 lb) in the past 24 hours indicates fluid overload, which can lead to complications such as heart failure or pulmonary edema. Immediate intervention, such as adjusting the rate of fluid administration or notifying the healthcare provider, is necessary to prevent further complications.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.