A patient has been taking lithium for 1 year, and the most recent lithium level is 0.9 mEq/L. Which statement about the laboratory result is correct?

The lithium level is too low

The lithium level is therapeutic

Lithium is not usually monitored with blood levels

The lithium level is too high

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is B

A. A lithium level of 0.9 mEq/L falls within the therapeutic range for lithium, so it is not too low.

B.   A lithium level of 0.9 mEq/L is within the therapeutic range for lithium maintenance therapy, which typically ranges from 0.6 to 1.2 mEq/L. Therefore, it is considered therapeutic.
C.   Lithium is commonly monitored with blood levels to ensure therapeutic efficacy and to prevent toxicity.
D.   A lithium level of 0.9 mEq/L is not too high; it is within the therapeutic range.

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Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A. "I will need to take extra care of my teeth and gums while on this medication.": Phenytoin can cause gum overgrowth (gingival hyperplasia), so taking extra care of oral hygiene is important.
B. "I will be able to stop taking this drug once the seizures stop.": Phenytoin is typically used as a long-term therapy for seizure control; stopping abruptly can lead to rebound seizures.
C. "I can go out for a beer while on this medication.": Alcohol consumption may interact with phenytoin and should be avoided or limited.
D. "I can skip doses if the side effects bother me.": Skipping doses of phenytoin can lead to inadequate seizure control and should not be done without consulting a healthcare provider.

A. These are adverse effects that usually subside after a few weeks. B. The drug must be stopped immediately because of possible adverse effects. C. This drug causes deprivation of REM sleep and may cause the inability to deal with normal stress. D. This drug causes the rapid eye movement (REM) sleep period to increase, resulting in nightmares and restlessness.

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A. These are adverse effects that usually subside after a few weeks: While some adverse effects of phenobarbital may diminish over time, the symptoms described by the patient are more likely related to its impact on REM sleep.
B. The drug must be stopped immediately because of possible adverse effects: Stopping phenobarbital abruptly can lead to withdrawal symptoms and potential rebound seizures; discontinuation should be done gradually under medical supervision.
C. This drug causes deprivation of REM sleep and may cause the inability to deal with normal stress: Phenobarbital is known to disrupt REM sleep, leading to emotional lability, irritability, and difficulty coping with stress.
D. This drug causes the rapid eye movement (REM) sleep period to increase, resulting in nightmares and restlessness: Phenobarbital actually decreases REM sleep, which can lead to disturbances in sleep patterns and mood changes.

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A patient has been taking lithium for 1 year, and the most recent lithium level is 0.9 mEq/L. Which statement about the laboratory result is correct?

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

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