A nurse is caring for a client who is taking lithium carbonate (Lithobid) for bipolar disorder. Which of the following should the nurse monitor for as an adverse effect of this medication?
Hypertension
Hypotension
Hypernatremia
Hyponatremia.
The Correct Answer is D
Lithium carbonate can cause a range of side effects, including increased urination, mild thirst, and electrolyte imbalances. These effects can lead to hyponatremia, which is a low level of sodium in the blood. Hyponatremia can cause symptoms such as confusion, weakness, and muscle cramps.
Choice A is wrong because lithium carbonate does not cause hypertension (high blood pressure). In fact, it may lower blood pressure by reducing the activity of the renin-angiotensin system.
Choice B is wrong because lithium carbonate does not cause hypotension (low blood pressure) by itself. However, it may enhance the effects of other drugs that lower blood pressure, such as diuretics or antihypertensives.
Choice C is wrong because lithium carbonate does not cause hypernatremia (high level of sodium in the blood). On the contrary, it can cause sodium loss through increased urination and thirst. Hypernatremia can cause symptoms such as dehydration, irritability, and seizures.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Grapefruit juice can interact with carbamazepine and increase its blood levels, which can lead to toxicity and adverse effects such as drowsiness, dizziness, blurred vision, nausea, vomiting, and rash.Therefore, the client should avoid grapefruit juice while taking this medication.
Choice B is wrong because taking carbamazepine with food does not affect its absorption or metabolism.
Choice C is wrong because jaundice is not a common side effect of carbamazepine.However, carbamazepine can cause liver toxicity, so the client should report any signs of nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, or dark urine.
Choice D is wrong because carbamazepine may take several weeks to reach its full therapeutic effect for bipolar disorder.The client should not expect to see immediate improvement in mood symptoms.
Choice E is wrong because carbamazepine does not affect the efficacy of hormonal contraceptives.However, some other anticonvulsants, such as phenytoin and phenobarbital, can reduce the effectiveness of birth control pills and increase the risk of pregnancy.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Olanzapine (Zyprexa) is an antipsychotic medication that can cause increased prolactin levels, which can interfere with ovulation and fertility in women.Therefore, the nurse should instruct the client to use a reliable form of birth control while taking this medication.
Choice A is wrong because olanzapine (Zyprexa) can take several weeks to show therapeutic effects.The nurse should inform the client that they might not notice any improvement in their symptoms for 2 to 4 weeks.
Choice B is wrong because olanzapine (Zyprexa) can be taken with or without food.The nurse should advise the client to take the medication as prescribed and not to skip doses.
Choice C is wrong because olanzapine (Zyprexa) does not cause jaundice. However, it can cause weight gain, diabetes, and dyslipidemia.The nurse should monitor the client’s blood glucose and lipid levels and encourage a healthy diet and exercise.
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