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 C
Explanation
The first action the nurse should take is to assess the client for adverse reactions.
It is important to ensure the client’s safety and well-being before taking any further actions.
Choice A is wrong because filing an incident report is not the first action the nurse should take.
Choice B is wrong because determining factors that led to the omission is not the first action the nurse should take.
Choice D is wrong because reporting the missed dosage to the client’s provider is not the first action the nurse should take.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Propranolol is a beta-blocker that is used to treat high blood pressure and other heart conditions.
It works by slowing down the heart rate and reducing the force of heart muscle contraction.
Therefore, it is important for the nurse to assess the client’s heart rate prior to administering this medication to ensure that it is within a safe range.
Choice B is wrong because respiratory rate is not directly affected by propranolol.
Choice C is wrong because temperature is not directly affected by propranolol.
Choice D is wrong because pain level is not directly affected by propranolol.
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