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
Explanation
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.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Lemonade may mask the taste of lithium but does not significantly reduce gastrointestinal irritation.
B. Taking lithium with meals helps buffer the stomach lining, reducing nausea and other GI side effects.
C. A large glass of juice may dilute the medication but does not provide the same protective effect as food.
D. An antacid may help with indigestion, but it is not the primary recommendation for preventing nausea from lithium; additionally, some antacids can alter lithium absorption.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.