A patient has been admitted and the nurse suspect lithium toxicity. What symptoms should be suspected with a patient who has to
shortness of breath, gastrointestinal distress, chronic cough
weakness, nausea, diarrhea
ECG changes, chest pain, dizziness
gastrointestinal distress, thirst, nystagmus
The Correct Answer is B
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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Rationale:
A. While depression may contribute to substance use, this choice makes an assumption about the patient's emotional state without adequate context.
B. Individuals with bipolar disorder often use substances like alcohol to manage or "self-medicate" their mood symptoms instead of taking prescribed medications.
C. This statement is overly simplistic and not clinically accurate; behavior is influenced by multiple factors, not just neurotransmitter levels.
D. While anxiety might coexist, this statement is vague and doesn't directly explain the pattern of substituting alcohol for prescribed medications.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Arthritis does not typically affect lithium metabolism or clearance.
B. Heart failure can impair renal function and fluid balance, increasing the risk of lithium toxicity and making serum concentration monitoring critical.
C. Psoriasis does not interfere with lithium pharmacokinetics.
D. Epilepsy is not directly related to lithium metabolism, though caution is warranted if the patient is on other medications.
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