A nurse is caring for a client who is taking lithium and reports experiencing lethargy, muscle weakness, and blurred vision. Which of the following responses should the nurse make?
"These symptoms will improve over time."
"You will need to have your blood drawn."
"You should decrease your intake of sodium."
"Continue the medication as prescribed."
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason: Telling the client that the symptoms will improve over time without further assessment could be misleading. These symptoms could indicate lithium toxicity, which requires immediate medical attention.
Choice B reason: Lethargy, muscle weakness, and blurred vision can be signs of lithium toxicity. The nurse should recommend blood tests to check lithium levels and kidney function to rule out toxicity.
Choice C reason: Decreasing sodium intake is not recommended without a healthcare provider's advice, as sodium levels can affect lithium levels in the body. Sudden changes in sodium intake should be avoided unless directed by a healthcare provider.
Choice D reason: Continuing the medication as prescribed without addressing the symptoms could be dangerous. The symptoms reported by the client need to be evaluated to ensure they are not due to lithium toxicity.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: This response is not therapeutic as it provides false assurance and may not be accurate. The return of the child depends on many factors beyond just attending counseling.
Choice B reason: While sedatives may be used to manage acute distress, this response does not address the client's expressed feelings of hopelessness and the risk of self-harm.
Choice C reason: This response directly addresses the client's statement about not wanting to live, which could indicate suicidal ideation. It is important to assess for the risk of self-harm or suicide.
Choice D reason: This response may be helpful in a long-term plan but does not address the immediate risk of harm to the client. It is also not guaranteed that a family member can obtain custody.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Avoiding television when hearing voices is not a recognized strategy for relapse prevention in schizophrenia. While reducing stimuli during episodes of auditory hallucinations can be helpful, it is not a substitute for professional treatment and medication adherence, which are key to relapse prevention.
Choice B reason: Informing a counselor about trouble sleeping is important because sleep disturbances can be an early indicator of a potential relapse. Maintaining open communication with healthcare providers about changes in sleep patterns allows for timely interventions and adjustments in treatment to prevent a relapse.
Choice C reason: Listening to the voices is not advisable as it may reinforce the hallucinations. Instead, clients are encouraged to engage in reality-based activities and to discuss their experiences with their healthcare providers to manage symptoms effectively.
Choice D reason: Isolation can exacerbate symptoms of schizophrenia and increase the risk of relapse. It is important for individuals to maintain social contacts and support systems as part of a comprehensive relapse prevention strategy.
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