A patient diagnosed with bipolar disorder is prescribed lamotrigine. The nurse should instruct the patient to immediately report which adverse effect?
Nausea
Tremors
Skin rash
Drowsiness
The Correct Answer is C
A. Nausea is a common side effect but is not as critical as a skin rash.
B. Tremors may occur with certain medications used in bipolar disorder but are not a specific concern with lamotrigine.
C. A skin rash is a serious adverse effect of lamotrigine, as it can indicate a life-threatening condition called Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) or toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), which require immediate medical intervention.
D. Drowsiness may occur with many medications but is not as urgent as a skin rash in this case.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Providing a structured activity schedule can be beneficial but comes after understanding the triggers of the behaviors.
B. Relaxation techniques are helpful but would be more effective after understanding the client's specific rituals and triggers.
C. The first step in managing obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is understanding the triggers or precipitating factors for the client's ritualistic behaviors. This helps the nurse identify patterns and understand the client's anxiety, which is essential for planning further interventions.
D. Discussing alternative coping strategies is important but should follow an assessment of the factors that drive the compulsive behaviors.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. A level of 1.8 mEq/L is too high for initial treatment, as it is above the therapeutic range.
B. A level of 1.8 mEq/L is not within the maintenance treatment level, which is typically 0.6–1.2 mEq/L.
C. The level is above the therapeutic level, not below it.
D. A lithium level of 1.8 mEq/L is above the therapeutic range (0.6–1.2 mEq/L) and is considered toxic. Toxicity can lead to serious side effects like tremors, confusion, and renal dysfunction.
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