A nurse is providing discharge teaching to a client who has bipolar disorder and will be discharged with a prescription for lithium. The nurse could teach the client which of the following factors puts her at risk for lithium toxicity?
A client runs 4 miles outdoors every afternoon.
The client eats 2 to 3 gm of sodium-containing foods daily.
The client drinks 2 liters of liquids daily.
The client eats foods high in tyramine.
The Correct Answer is A
A. Lithium is excreted through the kidneys, and dehydration and sodium depletion increase the risk of lithium toxicity. A client who runs 4 miles outdoors every afternoon is at risk of excessive sweating and fluid loss, which can lead to dehydration and sodium depletion. This reduces lithium excretion, leading to toxic levels in the blood.
B. A normal sodium intake helps maintain lithium balance. A low sodium intake increases lithium retention, but 2-3 grams/day is within the normal recommended range.
C. Adequate hydration helps prevent lithium toxicity. Clients on lithium should drink 2–3 liters of fluid daily to promote kidney function and lithium excretion.
D. Tyramine-rich foods (e.g., aged cheese, cured meats) are a concern for clients on monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), not lithium. Tyramine does not affect lithium levels.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Gabapentin and phenytoin are not directly associated with causing vitamin B deficiencies. However, certain antiseizure medications could potentially affect nutrient absorption over time.
B) A client who has chronic alcohol use disorder.
Explanation:
Chronic alcohol use disorder can lead to a deficiency in several B vitamins, particularly vitamin B1 (thiamine), vitamin B2 (riboflavin), vitamin B3 (niacin), vitamin B6 (pyridoxine), vitamin B9 (folate), and vitamin B12 (cobalamin). Alcohol interferes with the absorption and utilization of these vitamins in the body, and individuals with alcohol use disorder are often at risk for malnutrition and vitamin deficiencies.
C) A client who takes heparin to prevent deep vein thrombosis:
Heparin is an anticoagulant and does not directly impact the absorption or utilization of vitamin B.
D) A client who has asthma:
Asthma itself does not significantly increase the risk of vitamin B deficiencies. Vitamin B deficiencies are more commonly associated with factors like malnutrition, certain medical conditions, or medications that impact absorption, as seen in chronic alcohol use disorder.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A."You've been feeling that your life has no meaning."This response reflects active listening and acknowledges the client's emotions. Itreflects the client's feelings and encourages them to express more about their emotions and thoughts. It shows empathy and understanding, which can help build trust and rapport.
B. "You have a great deal to live for" may seem dismissive and does not address the client's current feelings of worthlessness.
C. "It's not unusual for depressed people to feel that way" can come across as minimizing the client's unique experience and does not provide support or encourage further discussion.
D. "Why do you feel you are worthless?" might make the client feel defensive or overwhelmed, and it does not offer the same level of empathy and support as reflecting their feelings would.

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