A nurse reviews the laboratory report for a client who is receiving lithium three times daily PO. The client's current blood lithium level is 1.8 mEq/L. The nurse identifies that this lab value indicates which of the following?.
The lithium level is within the therapeutic level for initial treatment.
The lithium level is below the therapeutic treatment level.
The lithium level is at the toxic level.
A blood lithium level of 1.8 mEq/L is not within the maintenance treatment level.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale:
A lithium level of 1.8 mEq/L is above the therapeutic level for initial treatment (0.8 to 1.4 mEq/L)3.
Choice B rationale:
A lithium level of 1.8 mEq/L is above, not below, the therapeutic treatment level.
Choice C rationale:
A lithium level of 1.8 mEq/L is at the toxic level. A blood lithium level greater than 1.5 mEq/L indicates toxicity.
Choice D rationale:
A lithium level of 1.8 mEq/L is not within the maintenance treatment level (0.4 to 1.3 mEq/L)3.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
High serum sodium levels do not directly cause toxic levels of valproate.
Choice B rationale:
While regular health monitoring is important, specifically performing thyroid function tests every 6 months is not a standard requirement for valproate use.
Choice C rationale:
A pretreatment electroencephalogram (EEG) is not typically required before starting valproate.
Choice D rationale:
Liver function tests must be monitored as valproate can cause liver failure that may be fatal.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Assigning a staff member to stay with the client at all times is the priority action when a client declines to make a safety contract. This is because the immediate safety of the client is the primary concern in such situations.
Choice B rationale:
Locking the doors to the unit and securing windows so they cannot be opened might be considered a safety measure, but it is not the priority. The focus should be on direct supervision to ensure safety.
Choice C rationale:
Removing any objects from the client’s environment that could be used for self-harm is important, but it is not the priority. The immediate safety of the client through constant supervision is the priority.
Choice D rationale:
Providing the client with plastic eating utensils for meals is a safety measure, but it is not the priority. The immediate safety of the client through constant supervision is the priority.
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