A patient diagnosed with bipolar disorder is in the maintenance phase of treatment. The patient asks, "Do I have to keep taking this lithium even though my mood is stable now?" Select the nurse's appropriate response.
"It's unusual that the health care provider hasn't already stopped your medication."
"Most patients take medication for approximately 6 months after discharge."
"Taking the medication every day helps reduce the risk of a relapse."
"You will be able to stop the medication in about 1 month."
The Correct Answer is C
Rationale:
A. Suggesting it is unusual for the provider to continue lithium could undermine trust in the treatment plan and is inaccurate.
B. Lithium is typically continued long-term or indefinitely to prevent relapse, not just for 6 months.
C. Continuing daily lithium helps maintain mood stability and significantly reduces the risk of relapse in bipolar disorder, even when the patient feels well.
D. Stopping lithium after only 1 month of stability greatly increases the likelihood of recurrence of manic or depressive episodes.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Shortness of breath and chronic cough are not typical early signs of lithium toxicity; these suggest possible respiratory or cardiac issues unrelated to lithium.
B. Early signs of lithium toxicity include gastrointestinal upset (nausea, diarrhea) and neuromuscular effects such as weakness.
C. ECG changes and chest pain can occur with severe toxicity, but they are not the most common initial symptoms.
D. Thirst may be a side effect of lithium due to nephrogenic diabetes insipidus, and nystagmus can occur in severe neurotoxicity, but these are not the classic early warning signs.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Rationale:
A. This indicates continued manic behavior such as distractibility and impulsivity, suggesting the treatment has not yet been effective.
B. These symptoms are consistent with acute mania, including poor sleep and distractibility, showing that the condition persists.
C. This reflects improvement in mood, behavior, and thought organization, indicating that the treatment is effective.
D. These are signs of ongoing manic behavior, especially impulsivity and rapid, excessive speech.
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
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.