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.”.
None
None
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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Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["B","C","D"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Sexual dysfunction is not typically associated with extrapyramidal side effects (EPS). EPS are usually characterized by involuntary motor symptoms.
Choice B rationale:
Muscle spasms of the neck, also known as dystonia, are a common symptom of EPS12.
Choice C rationale:
Tremors of the hands can be a sign of EPS, often associated with drug-induced parkinsonism.
Choice D rationale:
Fidgeting behavior, or akathisia, is a common symptom of EPS. It is characterized by a feeling of restlessness and an inability to sit still.
Choice E rationale:
Blurred vision is not typically associated with EPS. It is more likely to be a side effect of the medication itself, not a symptom of EPS12.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
A lithium level of 1.8 mEq/L is above the therapeutic level for initial treatment (0.8 to 1.4 mEq/L)3.
Choice B rationale:
A lithium level of 1.8 mEq/L is above, not below, the therapeutic treatment level.
Choice C rationale:
A lithium level of 1.8 mEq/L is at the toxic level. A blood lithium level greater than 1.5 mEq/L indicates toxicity.
Choice D rationale:
A lithium level of 1.8 mEq/L is not within the maintenance treatment level (0.4 to 1.3 mEq/L)3.
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