A young adult client with a recent diagnosis of bipolar disorder takes lithium carbonate daily. The client informed the school nurse of the desire to live away from home to attend college after graduating in one month. Which information is most important for the nurse to provide the client and his family?
The client should be aware of the signs and symptoms of his illness.
The client should plan to participate in group or individual therapy while at college.
Despite the illness, the client should be able to live away from home.
The client's serum lithium levels should be routinely evaluated.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale:
While it's important for the client to be aware of the signs and symptoms of their illness, medication monitoring is a more immediate concern.
Choice B rationale:
Participating in therapy can be beneficial, but it's not the most critical information to provide in this context.
Choice C rationale:
Living away from home is possible for many individuals with bipolar disorder, but medication management is a higher priority.
Choice D rationale:
Routine monitoring of serum lithium levels is crucial to ensure therapeutic levels and prevent lithium toxicity in individuals taking lithium carbonate for bipolar disorder.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Providing a supportive, structured environment for meals is an important aspect of the overall care plan for individuals with bulimia. However, it should not be the first intervention when a client is admitted with potential physical complications. Addressing the client's physical condition and safety is the initial priority.
Choice B rationale:
This is the correct initial intervention. Bulimia can lead to severe medical complications, including electrolyte imbalances, which can be life-threatening. Assessing the client's weight, vital signs, and electrolyte levels is crucial to determine the severity of physical issues and guide appropriate medical interventions.
Choice C rationale:
Discussing alternative strategies for binging and purging is an important aspect of treatment for bulimia, but it should follow the initial assessment of the client's physical condition. Addressing the client's medical needs takes precedence over discussing alternatives.
Choice D rationale:
While monitoring the client for possible vomiting is important in the care of individuals with bulimia, it should not be the first intervention when the client is admitted. Assessing the client's physical status and addressing potential medical complications should come before monitoring for specific behaviors.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Postponing the interview until the next day may not be necessary and could delay necessary assessment and care.
Choice B rationale:
Documenting the client's paranoid behavior is important but should be done after the nurse attempts to engage with the client.
Choice C rationale:
Attempting to ask the client simple questions is a non-threatening approach that allows the nurse to start the assessment and establish some rapport. It respects the client's need for space while initiating communication.
Choice D rationale:
Asking another nurse to talk with the client may be an option later if the client remains uncooperative, but the nurse should first attempt to engage with the client directly.
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