A nurse is preparing to teach a client about his prescription of lithium for the treatment of bipolar disorder.
Which of the following statements should the nurse include in the teaching?
"You will need to stop this medication if you experience diarrhea.”.
"You will need to take this medication on an empty stomach.”.
"You will need to consume a low-salt diet while on this medication.”.
"You will need your blood levels drawn weekly during the first month.”.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale:
Diarrhea is not a specific reason to stop lithium. However, severe diarrhea can affect lithium levels and should be reported to a healthcare provider.
Choice B rationale:
Lithium does not need to be taken on an empty stomach. It can be taken with or without food.
Choice C rationale:
A low-salt diet is not recommended while on lithium. In fact, a consistent, normal sodium intake is important because low sodium levels can cause lithium levels to become too high.
Choice D rationale:
Regular blood tests are necessary when taking lithium to ensure therapeutic levels and prevent toxicity. Weekly blood tests may be required during the first month of treatment.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Asking direct questions about the hallucination may validate the hallucination as real in the client’s mind.
Choice B rationale:
Instructing the client to argue with the voices could potentially increase the client’s distress.
Choice C rationale:
Acting as if the hallucination is real may reinforce the client’s belief in the hallucination.
Choice D rationale:
Telling the client that the hallucination is not a part of reality can help ground the client in reality.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Encouraging family to take the client out of the facility for short periods of time can be beneficial, but it does not address the sudden change in behavior.
Choice B rationale:
Rewarding the client for her change in behavior can reinforce positive behavior, but it does not address the sudden change in behavior.
Choice C rationale:
Asking the client why her behavior has changed can provide insight, but it does not ensure the safety of the client.
Choice D rationale:
Monitoring the client’s whereabouts at all times is important as a sudden change in mood can indicate a higher risk of suicide.
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