A nurse is reinforcing teaching with a client who has bipolar disorder and has a new prescription for lithium. To address possible adverse effects, the nurse should include that which of the following laboratory values will be monitored while the client is taking this medication?
Liver enzymes
Uric acid
Erythrocyte sedimentation rate
Sodium level
The Correct Answer is D
A. Monitoring liver enzymes (AST, ALT) is typically not directly related to lithium therapy. Elevated liver enzymes may indicate liver damage from various causes, such as hepatitis or medication toxicity, but it is not a routine monitoring parameter for lithium.
B. Lithium can decrease the excretion of uric acid, potentially leading to elevated levels. Monitoring uric acid levels helps to detect hyperuricemia, which may contribute to conditions like gout. It's important to monitor this parameter periodically during lithium therapy.
C. ESR is a nonspecific marker of inflammation and is not specifically monitored in relation to lithium therapy. It is used to diagnose or monitor conditions like infections, autoimmune diseases, or certain cancers, but it does not directly relate to lithium use.
D. Monitoring serum sodium levels is crucial during lithium therapy because lithium can affect renal function and electrolyte balance, including sodium levels. Hyponatremia is a potential adverse effect of lithium, and regular monitoring helps detect and manage this condition promptly.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Bradycardia (slow heart rate) is not typically associated with alcohol withdrawal. Instead, tachycardia (rapid heart rate) is more commonly observed due to the stimulant effects of alcohol withdrawal on the autonomic nervous system.
B. Drowsiness is not a common symptom of alcohol withdrawal. Instead, individuals may experience insomnia or disturbed sleep patterns as part of withdrawal symptoms.
C. Double vision (diplopia) is not a typical finding in alcohol withdrawal.
D. When a person stops or significantly decreases their alcohol intake after long-term use, the body can react with symptoms like increased blood pressure.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Reaction formation is a defense mechanism where an individual expresses feelings or impulses that are the opposite of their anxiety-provoking unconscious feelings. For example, someone who harbors unconscious aggressive feelings might demonstrate exaggerated friendliness. However, this defense mechanism is more about behaviors and attitudes rather than physical manifestations.
B. Somatization is the conversion of psychological distress into physical symptoms. It involves experiencing physical symptoms, such as pain or illness, without a clear medical cause. This defense mechanism is common in individuals with anxiety disorders who may manifest their anxiety through physical complaints rather than acknowledging their emotional distress.
C. Sublimation involves channeling unacceptable impulses or emotions into socially acceptable behaviors. It does not typically involve physical manifestations but rather a redirection of emotions or impulses into constructive activities. For example, someone with aggressive impulses might channel them into sports or artistic pursuits.
D. Intellectualization is a defense mechanism where reasoning and logic are used to distance oneself from uncomfortable or threatening feelings. It involves focusing on facts and avoiding emotions associated with a situation. This mechanism is more cognitive and may involve discussing or analyzing anxiety-inducing situations in a detached, rational manner.
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