An outpatient diagnosed with bipolar disorder is prescribed lithium. The patient telephones the nurse to say, "I've had severe diarrhea for 4 days. I feel very weak and unsteady when I walk. My usual hand tremor has gotten worse. What should I do?" The nurse will advise the patient to
have someone bring the patient to the clinic immediately.
restrict food and fluids for 24 hours and stay in bed.
take one dose of an over-the-counter antidiarrheal medication now.
drink a large glass of water with 1 teaspoon of salt added.
The Correct Answer is A
Rationale:
A. Severe diarrhea, worsening tremor, weakness, and unsteady gait are signs of possible lithium toxicity, which requires immediate medical evaluation; the patient should be brought to the clinic promptly.
B. Restricting fluids can worsen dehydration and increase lithium concentration, making toxicity more likely.
C. Taking an antidiarrheal does not address the underlying problem and may delay urgent treatment.
D. Adding salt and water will not reverse toxicity and could delay necessary medical intervention.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","C","D","E"]
Explanation
Rationale:
A. This is a form of disorganized speech where the person rapidly shifts from one topic to another, often without logical connection.
B. This is a type of delusional thinking, not a speech pattern. It involves an inflated sense of self-importance or abilities.
C. This occurs when the person begins to answer a question but veers off-topic and never returns to the original point.
D. This involves including excessive and unnecessary detail but eventually returning to the point, demonstrating disorganized but not completely illogical thought.
E. This is rapid, excessive speech that is difficult to interrupt, common in manic episodes and a sign of disorganized communication.Top of Form
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Suggesting it is unusual for the provider to continue lithium could undermine trust in the treatment plan and is inaccurate.
B. Lithium is typically continued long-term or indefinitely to prevent relapse, not just for 6 months.
C. Continuing daily lithium helps maintain mood stability and significantly reduces the risk of relapse in bipolar disorder, even when the patient feels well.
D. Stopping lithium after only 1 month of stability greatly increases the likelihood of recurrence of manic or depressive episodes.
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