A nurse is preparing to teach a client about the prescription of lithium (Eskalith) for the treatment of bipolar disorder. Which of the following statements should the nurse include in the teaching?

"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.”

"You will need to stop this medication if you develop severe diarrhea.”

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

Choice A rationale:

Ingesting lithium (Eskalith) on an empty stomach can lead to gastrointestinal upset. Therefore, clients are generally advised to take this medication with food or milk to minimize these side effects. This choice is incorrect.

Choice B rationale:

While sodium intake can impact lithium levels, clients are usually advised to maintain a consistent, moderate sodium intake rather than adopting a low-salt diet. Extreme dietary changes can affect lithium levels and potentially lead to toxicity, making this choice inaccurate.

Choice C rationale:

Monitoring blood levels of lithium is crucial to ensure therapeutic effectiveness and prevent toxicity. During the initiation phase, frequent monitoring, typically weekly, is necessary to establish the appropriate dosage for each individual. Lithium has a narrow therapeutic range, and blood levels need to be closely regulated.

Choice D rationale:

Discontinuing lithium abruptly can lead to worsened bipolar symptoms. Diarrhea can contribute to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances, potentially impacting lithium levels, but stopping the medication is not the initial action to take. Adjustments in dosage or management strategies are usually explored before considering discontinuation.

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Correct Answer is A

Explanation

Choice A rationale:

Similar to the explanation in , this statement requires intervention. It reflects a judgmental and prescriptive approach, which is not conducive to a therapeutic conversation. It implies that the nurse knows what the client should do, undermining the client's autonomy and self-discovery process.

Choice B rationale:

Recognizing that relationship difficulties are stressful and require effort to resolve is a valid and supportive statement. It acknowledges the challenges the client is facing and does not impose a specific solution.

Choice C rationale:

Suggesting the development of a communication plan is a proactive and therapeutic response. It empowers the client to work collaboratively toward improving their marital situation.

Choice D rationale:

Encouraging the client to share more about their concerns promotes open communication and allows the nurse to better understand the client's perspective. This response is client-centered and supportive.

A. "You need to work hard on resolving conflict with those closest to you.” B. "Let's discuss what you mean when you say that you cannot ever return to work.” C. "I notice you keep clenching your fists. Why are you doing this?” D. "Antidepressants are not your solution, but this therapy group is.”

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

Choice A rationale:

Telling the newly diagnosed cancer clients that they need to work hard on resolving conflicts with those closest to them may come across as insensitive and dismissive of their emotional struggles. Cancer diagnosis often brings about complex emotions, and this response does not acknowledge or address their concerns.

Choice B rationale:

This response acknowledges the client's statement and encourages further discussion about their feelings regarding their inability to return to work. It shows empathy and a willingness to explore their concerns, promoting open communication and emotional support.

Choice C rationale:

Commenting on the client's physical behavior without context might make them uncomfortable or self-conscious. The nurse's observation about fist clenching should be addressed more delicately if relevant, and the focus should be on the emotional aspect rather than the physical behavior.

Choice D rationale:

Dismissing the potential benefit of antidepressants and promoting the therapy group might undermine the client's feelings and choices. While group therapy can be beneficial, this response overlooks the potential need for a multifaceted approach to treatment, which could include therapy and medication.

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A nurse is preparing to teach a client about the prescription of lithium (Eskalith) for the treatment of bipolar disorder. Which of the following statements should the nurse include in the teaching?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A nurse is assessing a client who is sharing information regarding concerns about their marriage. The client states "My spouse and I argue most times." Which of the following statements by the nurse requires intervention by the charge nurse?

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A nurse is leading a group therapy session for clients who are newly diagnosed with cancer. Which of the following statements should be an appropriate response by the nurse?

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

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A nurse is assessing a client who is sharing information regarding concerns about their marriage. The client states "My spouse and I argue most times." Which of the following statements by the nurse requires intervention by the charge nurse?