A nurse is caring for a client who is taking lithium and reports starting a new exercise program. The nurse should assess the client for which of the following electrolyte imbalances?
Hypomagnesemia
Hypocalcemia
Hyponatremia
Hypokalemia
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A Reason:
Hypomagnesemia is incorrect. Lithium therapy itself is not a direct cause of hypomagnesemia. While exercise can affect magnesium levels to some extent, it's not a primary electrolyte imbalance that is typically associated with lithium use or considered a significant concern specifically due to lithium.
Choice B Reason:
Hypocalcemia is incorrect. Similarly, lithium therapy is not a direct cause of hypocalcemia. Exercise can affect calcium metabolism, but it's not a primary electrolyte imbalance typically associated with lithium use or considered a significant concern specifically due to lithium.
When a client taking lithium begins a new exercise program, the nurse should primarily assess for the risk of:
Choice C Reason:
Hyponatremia is correct. Lithium can affect the body's regulation of sodium, and excessive sweating due to increased exercise can lead to sodium loss. This combination can potentially contribute to the development of hyponatremia (low sodium levels). Therefore, when a client on lithium starts a new exercise regimen that may induce sweating, monitoring for signs of hyponatremia becomes crucial. Symptoms of hyponatremia can include confusion, headaches, nausea, and in severe cases, seizures or coma.
Choice D Reason:
Hypokalemia is incorrect. Lithium itself does not commonly cause hypokalemia. Exercise can lead to potassium loss through sweating, but hypokalemia is not the primary electrolyte imbalance typically associated with lithium use or considered a significant concern specifically due to lithium.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Remove duplicate medications of different dosages from the reconciliation is incorrect. Removing duplicate medications with different dosages from the reconciliation is indeed essential. However, the primary focus during transfer is to compare the current medication list with the new regimen to avoid omissions or discrepancies in the transition process.
Choice B Reason:
Compare the current list of medications to medications the client will receive after transform is correct. Comparing the current list of medications, the client is taking to the medications they are expected to receive after transfer is crucial for ensuring a seamless transition of care. This process helps identify discrepancies, potential interactions, or changes in the medication regimen between settings, ensuring the continuity and accuracy of medication administration.
Choice C Reason:
Omit over-the-counter medications from the at-home medication list is incorrect. Over-the-counter medications should ideally be included in the medication reconciliation process to provide a comprehensive overview of all medications the client is taking, including potential interactions with prescribed medications.
Choice D Reason:
Include medications the client received in the acute setting but will no longer need after transfer is incorrect. The reconciliation process should aim to update the medication list to reflect the client's current and future medication needs accurately. Including medications, the client received in the acute setting but won't need after transfer might introduce unnecessary medications into the new regimen. These should be communicated but not included in the ongoing medication list.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
"I should avoid drinking grapefruit juice." This statement is actually accurate. Grapefruit juice can interfere with the metabolism of certain statin medications, including lovastatin, leading to increased levels of the drug in the body. Advising against grapefruit juice consumption is a recommended precaution when taking lovastatin, so this statement shows the client's understanding of this interaction.
Choice B Reason:
"I am trying to decrease my dietary fat intake." This statement reflects a positive lifestyle change. Lowering dietary fat intake is often recommended for individuals on statin medications to help manage cholesterol levels. This statement demonstrates the client's commitment to making healthy dietary adjustments, which aligns with the treatment plan.
Choice B Reason:
"I was just diagnosed with hepatitis B. "Hepatitis B can affect liver function, and statin medications like lovastatin can potentially impact liver enzymes. Therefore, in someone with a history of hepatitis B, it's crucial to assess liver function before starting a statin and to monitor the liver during treatment. This statement raises concerns about potential liver complications or interactions that require further evaluation before initiating lovastatin.
Choice D Reason:
"I take metformin for my diabetes." Metformin, a medication for diabetes, does not directly interact with lovastatin. While it's relevant to know the client's other medications, this statement doesn't indicate a need for immediate further assessment regarding the use of lovastatin.
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