A nurse is reviewing the laboratory report of a client who has bipolar disorder prior to the administration of lithium carbonate. The client's lithium level is.6 mEq/L.
Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Assist the client to a left lateral position.
Implement fluid restrictions.
Request a dosage increase from the provider.
Prepare the client for hemodialysis.
The Correct Answer is C
- A. Assist the client to a left lateral position.
- This is generally used for clients at risk of aspiration, and it's not indicated based on the lithium level.
- B. Implement fluid restrictions.
- Fluid restrictions are usually implemented when there is a risk of fluid overload or hyponatremia, and not in this case. In fact, dehydration can raise lithium levels to toxic levels, so proper hydration is important.
- C. Request a dosage increase from the provider.
- While 0.6 mEq/L is within the therapeutic range, some providers may want to see a level slightly higher for maintenance. So requesting a dosage increase from the provider is the correct action.
- D. Prepare the client for hemodialysis.
- Hemodialysis is used to remove lithium from the blood in cases of severe lithium toxicity, which is indicated by levels significantly higher than 1.5 mEq/L. This is not needed when the lithium level is 0.6 mEq/L.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Spironolactone is a potassium-sparing diuretic that can increase potassium levels in the blood.
It is important for clients taking spironolactone to limit their intake of potassium-rich foods to prevent hyperkalemia (high potassium levels).
Choice B is wrong because “I will take the medication on an empty stomach,” is not the correct answer because spironolactone can be taken with or without food.
Choice C is wrong because “I will use salt substitutes in place of table salt,” is not the correct answer because many salt substitutes contain potassium and can increase the risk of hyperkalemia.
Choice D is wrong because “I will double up on my medication if I miss a dose,” is not the correct answer because it is not recommended to double up on medication if a dose is missed.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Warfarin is an oral anticoagulant medication and is not administered subcutaneously.
The nurse should clarify this prescription with the provider before administering it.
Choice A is wrong because tetracycline can be prescribed in doses of 1 g orally every 6 hours.
Choice C is wrong because Penicillin G can be prescribed in doses of 5,000,000 units intramuscularly every 4 hours.
Choice D is wrong because Zoledronate can be prescribed as a single intravenous dose of 5 mg.
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