A nurse is reinforcing teaching with a client who takes lithium carbonate for bipolar disorder. For which of the following findings should the nurse monitor as an adverse effect of lithium carbonate?
Thyroid enlargement
Constipation
Hyporeflexia
Elevated blood pressure
The Correct Answer is A
A. Lithium can cause hypothyroidism and goiter as adverse effects. Therefore, monitoring of thyroid function and physical examination for thyroid enlargement is necessary during lithium therapy.
B. Constipation is not a typical adverse effect of lithium carbonate. It's more commonly associated with side effects such as nausea, diarrhea, or polyuria.
C. Hyporeflexia is not commonly associated with lithium carbonate use. Lithium more commonly affects the central nervous system, leading to symptoms such as tremors, confusion, and seizures in cases of toxicity.
D. Lithium is more commonly associated with the opposite effect, lowering blood pressure rather than elevating it. It's known to have effects on sodium transport in renal tubules, leading to increased water retention and possibly hypotension.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Methadone is an opioid agonist primarily used for the management of opioid dependence and chronic pain. It is not indicated for the treatment of alcohol withdrawal or delirium.
B. Acamprosate is a medication used to support abstinence in individuals who have recently stopped drinking alcohol. It is not typically used to manage acute alcohol withdrawal symptoms such as delirium tremens.
C. Disulfiram is a medication used as an aversive therapy to deter alcohol consumption by causing unpleasant reactions (e.g., flushing, nausea, vomiting) when alcohol is ingested. It is not indicated for the treatment of alcohol withdrawal or delirium.
D. Lorazepam is a benzodiazepine commonly used to manage alcohol withdrawal symptoms, including delirium tremens. It acts by enhancing the inhibitory effects of gamma- aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the central nervous system, thereby reducing the symptoms of alcohol withdrawal such as seizures.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Gentamycin ointment is typically applied to the affected area and then covered with a sterile dressing to enhance absorption and prevent contamination. Leaving it open to the air may reduce its effectiveness.
B. Gentamycin ointment is not known to cause blurry vision, as it is applied topically to the skin and does not typically affect vision.
C. Gentamycin ointment should only be applied to the specific area of infection as directed by the healthcare provider. Applying it to large areas unnecessarily may increase the risk of adverse effects and antibiotic resistance.
D. Proper cleansing of the affected area before applying gentamycin ointment helps remove debris and bacteria, promoting better medication absorption and effectiveness.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today