A physician orders Lithium 1.2 grams/day in three divided doses PO for a client with bipolar disorder. The medication is supplied as 300 mg/5 mL. How much will the nurse administer per dose?

(Round the answer to the nearest tenth. Use a leading zero if it applies. Do not use a trailing zero.)

Choice A Reason:

Have cut vegetables prepared for a snack instead of chips or cookies. This choice is correct because it encourages healthier eating habits, which can help manage weight gain associated with mood stabilizers. Vegetables are low in calories and high in nutrients, making them a better alternative to high-calorie snacks like chips and cookies. This can help the client maintain a healthy weight while adhering to their medication regimen.

Choice B Reason:

Extended-release forms of medications have fewer side effects when dissolved in water. This choice is incorrect. Extended-release medications are designed to be released slowly over time and should not be dissolved in water. Dissolving them can alter their release mechanism, leading to potential side effects and reduced efficacy.

Choice C Reason:

Weigh yourself once in the morning and once in the evening using the same scale. This choice is incorrect. Weighing oneself multiple times a day can lead to unnecessary anxiety and obsession over weight fluctuations, which are normal throughout the day. It is generally recommended to weigh oneself once a week at the same time of day for a more accurate measure of weight trends.

Choice D Reason:

Drink flavored water instead of soft drinks. This choice is correct because it promotes healthier beverage choices. Soft drinks are high in sugar and calories, which can contribute to weight gain. Flavored water, on the other hand, can be a refreshing and low-calorie alternative, helping the client manage their weight while staying hydrated.

Choice E Reason:

Walk 30 minutes per day, 5 days per week. This choice is correct because regular physical activity is essential for maintaining a healthy weight and overall well-being. Walking is a low-impact exercise that can help burn calories, improve mood, and enhance adherence to a medication regimen by reducing the side effects of weight gain.

The correct answer is c. Replace fluids.

Choice A Reason: Apply restraints

Applying restraints is generally not the first-line intervention for managing alcohol withdrawal. Restraints should only be used if the patient poses an immediate threat to themselves or others and all other less restrictive measures have failed. The primary focus in the initial phase of alcohol withdrawal is to manage physiological stability and prevent complications.

Choice B Reason: Identify social supports

While identifying social supports is important for long-term recovery and overall mental health, it is not the highest priority during the initial phase of alcohol withdrawal. The immediate concern is to address the acute physiological symptoms and prevent severe complications such as seizures or delirium tremens.

Choice C Reason: Replace fluids

Replacing fluids is the highest priority in the initial phase of alcohol withdrawal. Dehydration is a common issue in patients undergoing withdrawal, and maintaining fluid balance is crucial for preventing complications. Ensuring adequate hydration helps stabilize the patient and supports overall physiological function during the withdrawal process.

Choice D Reason: Orient to reality

Orienting the patient to reality is important, especially if they are experiencing confusion or delirium. However, it is not the highest priority in the initial phase of alcohol withdrawal. The primary focus should be on stabilizing the patient’s physiological condition, including fluid replacement and monitoring vital signs.