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.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Regular dental check-ups are important for clients taking phenytoin, as it can cause gum hyperplasia.
B. Phenytoin can interact with many medications, so it's essential for the client to inform their healthcare provider before starting any new medications.
C. Phenytoin is typically used as a long-term treatment for seizure disorders. Stopping the medication suddenly can increase the risk of seizures and should only be done under the guidance of a healthcare provider.
D. Phenytoin absorption can be affected by food, so taking it with meals can help reduce gastrointestinal side effects. However, it's important for the client to maintain consistent dosing and timing with or without meals.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Benztropine, an anticholinergic medication, can cause urinary retention or difficulty with urination as a side effect due to its anticholinergic properties. Clients should be instructed to report any difficulty voiding promptly, as it can lead to complications such as urinary tract infections or bladder distention.
B. Benztropine is not typically associated with diarrhea as an adverse effect.
C. While anticholinergic medications can cause tachycardia (increased heart rate) due to their anticholinergic effects, they are not associated with slow pulse.
D. Benztropine is used to decrease excessive salivation (sialorrhea) rather than causing it as an adverse effect.
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