A nurse is collecting data from a client who is taking lithium. Which of the following findings should the nurse identify as early manifestations of lithium toxicity? (Select all that apply.)
Incoordination
Polyuria
Nausea
Convulsions
Confusion
Correct Answer : A,C,E
A. Incoordination, such as clumsiness or difficulty walking, can be an early sign of lithium toxicity. It reflects the neurological effects of elevated lithium levels on motor coordination.
B. Polyuria (excessive urination) is a common late symptom of lithium toxicity. Lithium interferes with the kidney's ability to concentrate urine, leading to increased urine output.
C. Nausea is a gastrointestinal symptom that can occur in the early stages of lithium toxicity. It is often accompanied by other gastrointestinal disturbances such as vomiting and diarrhea.
D. Convulsions (seizures) are not typically considered early manifestations of lithium toxicity but rather indicate severe toxicity. Seizures can occur at higher levels of lithium toxicity and require immediate medical intervention.
E. Confusion is another early sign of lithium toxicity. It reflects the impact of elevated lithium levels on the central nervous system, leading to cognitive impairment and altered mental status.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. This response dismisses the client's experience and hallucination as a mistake. It invalidates the client's feelings and does not acknowledge the client's reality. It can increase the client's distress and undermine trust in the nurse's communication.
B. While this statement provides factual information about the need for the blood specimen, it does not address the client's hallucination or their fear related to it. It may come off as indifferent to the client's feelings and concerns.
C. This option dismisses the client’s feelings without addressing them appropriately.
D. This response validates the client's experience and expresses empathy for their feelings of fear. It acknowledges the hallucination without confirming its reality and shows understanding of how
frightening the experience might be for the client. This response is supportive and helps build trust between the nurse and the client.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Dual diagnosis treatment programs are specifically designed for individuals who have both a mental health disorder (such as ASPD) and a substance use disorder (alcohol dependency in this case). These programs integrate treatment approaches that address both conditions concurrently. They typically involve a combination of medication management, psychotherapy, and support groups tailored to dual diagnosis clients. Encouraging the client to participate in a dual diagnosis treatment group can help address the complex interplay between ASPD and alcohol dependency.
B. Codependency support groups focus on relationships where one person may enable or support dysfunctional behavior in another person. While relevant in certain contexts, codependency support groups may not directly address the primary issues of ASPD and alcohol dependency. Therefore, this option is less appropriate compared to dual diagnosis treatment for this client.
C. Psychodrama is a form of therapy where clients act out real-life situations to explore and gain insights into their feelings, behaviors, and relationships. While psychodrama can be beneficial for emotional expression and role-playing, it may not directly target the core symptoms and challenges of ASPD and alcohol dependency. Therefore, it may not be the most effective intervention for this client compared to dual diagnosis treatment.
D. Crisis intervention focuses on immediate stabilization and support during a mental health crisis or acute episode. While crisis intervention may be necessary at times, it is not a comprehensive treatment approach for ASPD and alcohol dependency. Long-term management and therapeutic interventions, such as dual diagnosis treatment, are typically needed to address these chronic conditions effectively.
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