A nurse is preparing to administer methylphenidate to a child who has ADHD. The child asks, “Why do I have to take this pill?” What should the nurse say?

This pill will help you focus and pay attention better.This is because methylphenidate is a stimulant medication that increases the activity of certain brain chemicals, such as dopamine and norepinephrine, which are involved in attention and impulse control.

Choice B is wrong because this pill will not make you smarter or more popular.

These are unrealistic expectations that can lead to disappointment or misuse of the medication.

Choice C is wrong because this pill will not calm you down or make you less hyperactive.

Methylphenidate does not have a sedating effect, but rather helps you regulate your behavior and emotions.

Choice D is wrong because this pill will not cure your disorder or make you normal.

ADHD is a chronic condition that requires ongoing management and support.

There is no cure for ADHD, but medication can help reduce some of the symptoms and improve your functioning.

Thyroid function tests, serum electrolytes and serum creatinine levels should be monitored for a client who is taking lithium carbonate.This is because lithium can affect the thyroid gland, causing hypothyroidism or goiter.Lithium can also cause dehydration and electrolyte imbalance, which can increase the risk of toxicity.Lithium can also impair renal function, leading to increased serum creatinine levels.

Choice B is wrong because blood glucose levels are not affected by lithium.Choice D is wrong because liver function tests are not indicated for lithium therapy.

Normal ranges for thyroid function tests vary depending on the method and laboratory used, but generally include:

• Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH): 0.4 to 4.0 mIU/L

• Free thyroxine (FT4): 0.8 to 2.8 ng/dL

• Total triiodothyronine (T3): 80 to 200 ng/dL

Normal ranges for serum electrolytes include:

• Sodium: 135 to 145 mEq/L

• Potassium: 3.5 to 5.0 mEq/L

• Chloride: 98 to 106 mEq/L

• Bicarbonate: 22 to 26 mEq/L

Normal range for serum creatinine is 0.6 to 1.2 mg/dL for men and 0.5 to 1.1 mg/dL for women.