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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["B","C","D","E"]
Explanation
A. Being married is generally considered a protective factor against suicide. Married individuals often have social support and a sense of belonging, which can reduce suicide risk. Therefore, this would not be identified as a risk factor for suicide.
B. Alcohol use disorder is a significant risk factor for suicide. Alcohol can impair judgment, increase impulsivity, and exacerbate underlying mental health issues. It is associated with higher rates of suicidal ideation and attempts.
C. Family history of suicide, including among siblings, is a known risk factor. Exposure to suicide within the family can contribute to feelings of hopelessness, increase perceived acceptability of suicide, and impact mental health negatively.
D. Access to firearms is a well-established risk factor for completed suicide. Firearms are highly lethal, and their presence increases the likelihood of a fatal suicide attempt compared to other means.
E. Terminal illness, including conditions like terminal liver cancer, can contribute to feelings of hopelessness and despair, potentially increasing suicide risk. The distress related to the prognosis and physical symptoms can exacerbate mental health issues.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Buprenorphine is primarily used for the treatment of opioid dependence, not alcohol detoxification. It is a partial opioid agonist and can precipitate withdrawal symptoms in individuals dependent on opioids. Therefore, it is not appropriate for alcohol detoxification and would not typically be administered in this context.
B. Diazepam belongs to the benzodiazepine class of medications and is commonly used during alcohol detoxification. Benzodiazepines help manage symptoms of alcohol withdrawal, including anxiety, tremors, agitation, and seizures. They work by enhancing the effects of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which is an inhibitory neurotransmitter in the brain. Diazepam has a longer duration of action and is preferred in managing alcohol withdrawal due to its smoother pharmacokinetic profile compared to shorter-acting benzodiazepines.
C. Varenicline is a medication used for smoking cessation. It works by partially activating nicotine receptors in the brain, reducing the pleasurable effects of smoking and decreasing withdrawal symptoms. It is not indicated for alcohol detoxification and would not be used in this context.
D. Rimonabant is a cannabinoid receptor antagonist that was once used for weight loss but has been withdrawn from the market due to psychiatric side effects, including depression and anxiety. It is not indicated for alcohol detoxification and would not be administered in this context.
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