A nurse is caring for a client who has bipolar disorder and is taking lithium carbonate. Which of the following laboratory tests should the nurse monitor for this client? (Select all that apply.).

Thyroid function tests, serum electrolytes and serum creatinine levels should be monitored for a client who is taking lithium carbonate.This is because lithium can affect the thyroid gland, causing hypothyroidism or goiter.Lithium can also cause dehydration and electrolyte imbalance, which can increase the risk of toxicity.Lithium can also impair renal function, leading to increased serum creatinine levels.

Choice B is wrong because blood glucose levels are not affected by lithium.Choice D is wrong because liver function tests are not indicated for lithium therapy.

Normal ranges for thyroid function tests vary depending on the method and laboratory used, but generally include:

• Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH): 0.4 to 4.0 mIU/L

• Free thyroxine (FT4): 0.8 to 2.8 ng/dL

• Total triiodothyronine (T3): 80 to 200 ng/dL

Normal ranges for serum electrolytes include:

• Sodium: 135 to 145 mEq/L

• Potassium: 3.5 to 5.0 mEq/L

• Chloride: 98 to 106 mEq/L

• Bicarbonate: 22 to 26 mEq/L

Normal range for serum creatinine is 0.6 to 1.2 mg/dL for men and 0.5 to 1.1 mg/dL for women.

Seizures.

Alprazolam is a benzodiazepine that acts on the GABA receptors in the brain to reduce anxiety.

Abrupt discontinuation of alprazolam can cause withdrawal symptoms, such as seizures, tremors, insomnia, and anxiety.

To prevent this, alprazolam should be tapered off gradually under medical supervision.

Choice B is wrong because alprazolam does not cause hypotension when discontinued.

Hypotension is a possible side effect of alprazolam when taken, especially in high doses or with alcohol.

Choice C is wrong because alprazolam does not cause bradycardia when discontinued.

Bradycardia is a possible side effect of alprazolam when taken, especially in older adults or with other medications that slow down the heart rate.

Choice D is wrong because alprazolam does not cause constipation when discontinued.

Constipation is a possible side effect of alprazolam when taken, especially in older adults or with other medications that affect the gastrointestinal motility.