A nurse is reviewing laboratory results for a client and notes a serum lithium level of 1.6 mEq/L. Which of the following manifestations should the nurse expect the client to report?.
GI discomfort and poor coordination.
Lip smacking and tongue thrusting.
Blurred vision and jerking motor movements.
Fever and fluctuating blood pressure.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale:
A serum lithium level of 1.6 mEq/L is above the therapeutic range (0.6-1.2 mEq/L) and can cause symptoms such as GI discomfort and poor coordination.
Choice B rationale:
Lip smacking and tongue thrusting are not typically associated with lithium toxicity.
Choice C rationale:
While blurred vision can be a symptom of lithium toxicity, jerking motor movements are not typically associated with this condition.
Choice D rationale:
Fever and fluctuating blood pressure are not typically symptoms of lithium toxicity.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
A lithium level of 1.8 mEq/L is above the therapeutic level for initial treatment (0.8 to 1.4 mEq/L)3.
Choice B rationale:
A lithium level of 1.8 mEq/L is above, not below, the therapeutic treatment level.
Choice C rationale:
A lithium level of 1.8 mEq/L is at the toxic level. A blood lithium level greater than 1.5 mEq/L indicates toxicity.
Choice D rationale:
A lithium level of 1.8 mEq/L is not within the maintenance treatment level (0.4 to 1.3 mEq/L)3.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Asking why the client feels they will never get better might come across as dismissive or confrontational.
Choice B rationale:
This response acknowledges the client’s feelings and offers a supportive approach to managing the symptoms of somatic symptom disorder. This disorder is characterized by a significant focus on physical symptoms that cause major distress and/or problems functioning. The main treatment is psychotherapy, and medication might be given in some cases.
Choice C rationale:
Focusing only on the physical symptoms might not address the emotional distress that the client is experiencing.
Choice D rationale:
While it’s important to offer hope, this response might come across as dismissive of the client’s current feelings.
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