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
Using sildenafil together with nitroglycerin is not recommended.
Combining these medications may cause blood pressure to fall excessively, which can lead to cardiovascular collapse.
Choice A is wrong because Albuterol, is not a contraindication for receiving sildenafil.
Choice B is wrong because Indomethacin, is not a contraindication for receiving sildenafil.
Choice D is wrong because Furosemide, is not a contraindication for receiving sildenafil.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
First, convert the client’s weight from pounds to kilograms: 121 lb /.2 = 55 kg. Then, calculate the dose in mg: 1 mg/kg * 55 kg = 55 mg.
Finally, use the ratio of available enoxaparin to calculate the volume to administer: (55 mg / 60 mg) * 0.6 mL = 0.55 mL.
Rounded to the nearest tenth, this is 0.6 mL.
Choice A is wrong because it is less than the calculated dose of 0.6 mL.
Choice B is wrong because it is equal to the calculated dose of 0.6 mL but not rounded to the nearest tenth.
Choice D is wrong because it is greater than the calculated dose of 0.6 mL.
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