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 D
Explanation
Lovastatin is a lipid-lowering medication that belongs to the statin drug class.
It is used to treat and prevent coronary heart disease and hypercholesterolemia.
Before starting therapy with lovastatin, liver function tests should be performed to establish a baseline and monitor for any potential adverse effects on the liver.
Choice A is wrong because Western blot analysis, is not the correct answer because it is a laboratory technique used to detect specific proteins in a sample, not to monitor liver function.
Choice B is wrong because Pancreatic enzymes, is not the correct answer because it refers to enzymes produced by the pancreas that aid in digestion, not liver function.
Choice C is wrong because Exercise electrocardiography, is not the correct answer because it is a diagnostic test used to assess the heart’s response to physical stress, not liver function.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Some people believe that saw palmetto may help reduce symptoms of benign prostate hypertrophy (BPH).
The nurse should suggest that the client discuss this supplement with their provider.
Choice Ais wrong because black cohosh is not commonly used to treat BPH.
Choice Bis wrong because feverfew is not commonly used to treat BPH.
Choice D is wrong because garlic is not commonly used to treat BPH.
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