A nurse is reviewing a client’s laboratory results prior to administering the client’s medications. The nurse notes that the client’s lithium level is 2.0 mEq/L.
Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?
Muscle irritability.
Constipation.
Hypoglycemia.
Increased BP.
The Correct Answer is A
Muscle irritability. A client with a lithium level of
2.0 mEq/L has severe lithium toxicity, which can cause muscle irritability, tremors, seizures, and other neurological symptoms. The normal therapeutic range for lithium is 0.8-1.2 mEq/L.
Choice B is wrong because constipation is not a sign of lithium toxicity, but rather a possible side effect of lithium therapy at lower doses.
Choice C is wrong because hypoglycemia is not a sign of lithium toxicity, but rather a possible complication of diabetes or other conditions that affect blood sugar levels.
Choice D is wrong because increased blood pressure is not a sign of lithium toxicity, but rather a possible risk factor for cardiovascular disease or other conditions that affect blood vessels.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
The task involves making ongoing judgments about client data. This is a contraindication to delegating a task to an AP because the AP is not trained or authorized to make clinical decisions or assessments. The nurse is responsible for evaluating the client’s condition and needs, and delegating only tasks that are within the AP’s scope of practice and do not require critical thinking.
Choice B is wrong because the task is within the AP’s range of function to perform.
This is a criterion for delegating a task to an AP, not a contraindication. The nurse should ensure that the AP has the necessary skills and knowledge to perform the task safely and effectively.
Choice C is wrong because the task can be performed in the same manner for most clients.
This is also a criterion for delegating a task to an AP, not a contraindication. The nurse should delegate tasks that are routine, standardized, and have predictable outcomes.
Choice D is wrong because the task requires a specific sequence of steps.
This is not a contraindication to delegating a task to an AP, as long as the AP is competent and familiar with the procedure. The nurse should provide clear instructions and expectations for the task, and monitor the AP’s performance.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Encourage the client to visit with someone who has had an amputation.
This strategy can help the client cope with the loss of a body part and learn from the experience of others who have gone through a similar situation.
Choice A is wrong because suggesting that the client wear facility clothing until the prosthesis fitting can delay the client’s acceptance of the body image alteration and increase the risk of infection.
Choice C is wrong because discouraging the client from touching the residual limb for the first week can interfere with the healing process and prevent the client from becoming familiar with the new body part.
Choice D is wrong because reassuring the client that the rehabilitation program is optional can discourage the client from participating in physical therapy and hinder the recovery and adaptation.
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