A nurse is reviewing the morning laboratory report for a client who has bipolar disorder and recently started taking lithium. The client's current lithium level is 1.2 mEq/L. Which of the following actions should the nurse plan to take?
Administer the regular dose of lithium.
Contact the laboratory to repeat the lithium level.
Obtain an ECG and institute seizure precautions.
Contact the provider to prescribe an increased dose of lithium.
The Correct Answer is A
A. A lithium level of 1.2 mEq/L falls within the therapeutic range (0.6-1.2 mEq/L) for the treatment of bipolar disorder. Therefore, the nurse should administer the regular dose of lithium as prescribed and closely monitor the client for any side effects.
B. Repeating the lithium level is unnecessary because the current level is within the therapeutic range. Repeated testing may be warranted if the level is outside the therapeutic range or if there are clinical concerns.
C. This action is not indicated for a lithium level within the therapeutic range. ECG and seizure precautions are typically reserved for lithium toxicity, which presents with levels above the therapeutic range.
D. Increasing the dose of lithium is not warranted when the current level is within the therapeutic range. Doing so could increase the risk of toxicity.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Tinnitus, or ringing in the ears, is a common adverse effect of aminoglycosides such as gentamycin which cause ototoxicity, rather than erythromycin which is a macrolide.
B. Constipation with abdominal cramping, is not a commonly reported side effect of erythromycin; this medication is more likely to cause diarrhea rather than constipation.
C. Common adverse effects of oral erythromycin include gastrointestinal symptoms such as abdominal cramping and nausea. Therefore, the statement indicating the client is experiencing a common adverse effect would be having a small amount of yellow emesis which aligns with the reported side effects of nausea and vomiting.
D. Swollen lips are not a common adverse effect of erythromycin. This symptom may indicate an allergic reaction or another issue unrelated to the medication.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Levodopa/carbidopa is often prescribed to manage Parkinson's disease symptoms. Taking it with applesauce, or other light, easily digestible foods, can help reduce nausea, a common side effect of the medication.
B. While yogurt is generally well-tolerated, it may not be as effective in reducing nausea as applesauce.
C. Cheese is not typically recommended to take with levodopa/carbidopa for nausea relief.
D. Spinach is not commonly used to alleviate nausea associated with levodopa/carbidopa intake.
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