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.”
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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
The correct answer is choice B. A room containing personal belongings.
Choice A rationale:
Similar to the rationale provided for , a room without a window would not provide the necessary sensory input and connection to the outside world. Natural light and visual stimuli are important for maintaining a sense of time and orientation.
Choice B rationale:
A room containing personal belongings is the correct answer for the same reasons as mentioned in the previous question. Familiar items can provide comfort and reduce feelings of agitation in cognitively impaired individuals.
Choice C rationale:
Once again, a room adjacent to the nursing station could expose the client to unnecessary noise and activity, potentially causing distress and hindering the therapeutic environment required for cognitively impaired individuals.
Choice D rationale:
Dim lighting can contribute to disorientation and confusion. Adequate lighting helps individuals perceive their surroundings and reduces the risk of accidents.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
The correct answer is choice D: "If suspicion of abuse exists, then reporting is mandatory."
Choice A rationale:
If the potential abuser commits to stopping the abuse, healthcare workers are not required to report it. Rationale: This statement is incorrect. Healthcare workers are mandated reporters, and their primary responsibility is to protect the safety and well-being of the child. Regardless of whether the potential abuser commits to stopping the abuse, suspicion of abuse requires reporting.
Choice B rationale:
Evidence must exist before reporting. Rationale: This statement is incorrect. While concrete evidence can strengthen a case, it is not a prerequisite for reporting suspected child abuse. Reporting is based on reasonable suspicion, not proof. Healthcare workers should err on the side of caution and report any concerns.
Choice C rationale:
I don't want to defame someone if the report is false. Rationale: This statement is incorrect. Reporting suspected child abuse is not about defaming someone, but rather about ensuring the safety of the child. Reporting is a part of the legal and ethical obligations of healthcare workers to protect vulnerable individuals.
Choice D rationale:
If suspicion of abuse exists, then reporting is mandatory. Rationale: This statement is correct. Healthcare workers are mandated reporters and have a duty to report suspected child abuse to appropriate authorities. Reporting is necessary when there is reasonable suspicion, even if definitive evidence is not yet present.
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