A nurse is caring for a client who has bipolar disorder and has been taking lithium for 1 year. Before administering the medication, the nurse should check to see that which of the following tests have been completed?

A. Documents medication administration prior to administering it: Documenting medication administration before actually administering it is incorrect and can lead to errors in documentation. The nurse should document medication administration after ensuring the medication is given to the client.

B. Verifies the medication against the prescription and medication label: This is a correct action. The nurse should verify the medication against the prescription and medication label to ensure accuracy before administering it.

C. Checks the provider's orders and confirmed dosage in a medication reference guide: This is a correct action. The nurse should check the provider's orders and confirm the dosage in a reliable medication reference guide to ensure accuracy before administering the medication.

D. Scans the barcode on the medication administration record and the client's armband: This is a correct action. Scanning the barcode on the medication administration record and the client's armband helps ensure the "Five Rights" of medication administration: right patient, right medication, right dose, right route, and right time.

A. "You will need to take this medication on an empty stomach."

Lithium is typically taken with food to minimize gastrointestinal side effects. Instructing the client to take it on an empty stomach would be incorrect.

B. "You will need to stop this medication if you experience diarrhea."

Diarrhea is not typically a reason to stop lithium therapy. However, persistent diarrhea can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances, which may affect lithium levels. It's essential for the client to report persistent diarrhea to their healthcare provider for further evaluation and management.

C. "You will need to consume a low-salt diet while on this medication."

A low-salt diet is not typically recommended with lithium therapy. In fact, lithium can cause sodium depletion, so it's important for clients to maintain adequate salt intake unless otherwise instructed by their healthcare provider.

D. "You will need your blood levels drawn weekly during the first month."

This statement is correct. Monitoring serum lithium levels is crucial to ensure the medication's effectiveness and prevent toxicity. Initially, frequent monitoring is necessary to establish the appropriate dosage and assess for any signs of toxicity. Weekly blood level checks during the first month of therapy are common practice.