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 C
Explanation
A. This response may come across as dismissive or lacking empathy. It does not acknowledge the client's feelings or address the underlying concerns contributing to their anxiety. It's important for the nurse to validate the client's emotions and provide reassurance rather than expressing confusion or disbelief.
B. While this response aims to provide reassurance, it may oversimplify the client's feelings and situation. Anxiety is complex, and telling someone not to worry might not be effective in alleviating their distress. It's crucial to engage the client in a more meaningful conversation about their concerns and offer support tailored to their needs.
C. This response demonstrates active listening and therapeutic communication. It encourages the client to express their worries and feelings, which can help them feel understood and supported. By discussing what is bothering them, the nurse can gather important information about the client's concerns and begin to address them effectively.
D. While nutrition is important, this response may come across as directive and could potentially minimize the client's emotional distress. It does not acknowledge the client's anxiety or provide support for their current feelings of restlessness and worry. The nurse should prioritize addressing the client's emotional needs and anxiety before focusing on physical aspects like nutrition.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Fluoxetine is not indicated for the treatment of seizures. Its primary therapeutic effect is related to mood stabilization through serotonin reuptake inhibition in the brain. Therefore, absence of seizures would not be an expected outcome of fluoxetine therapy.
B. Hand tremors are not typically a direct symptom of depression or anxiety but can occur as a side effect of certain medications or due to anxiety-related physiological responses. Fluoxetine itself does not typically cause or treat hand tremors directly. Therefore, while tremor reduction might occur as a result of improved mood and reduced anxiety, it is not a direct therapeutic outcome of fluoxetine.
C. Improved mood is one of the primary expected outcomes of fluoxetine therapy. SSRIs like fluoxetine work by increasing serotonin levels in the brain, which helps regulate mood and alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety. Clients typically experience a reduction in feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and anxiety, leading to an overall improvement in mood.
D. Hallucinations are not a typical symptom of depression or anxiety disorders but can occur in conditions such as schizophrenia or psychotic depression. Fluoxetine is not primarily indicated for treating hallucinations.
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