The healthcare provider prescribes lithium carbonate for a client diagnosed with bipolar, manic depression. It is most important for the nurse to review which laboratory finding prior to beginning the drug therapy?
Alkaline phosphatase.
Blood glucose.
White blood count.
Serum creatinine.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale: Alkaline phosphatase is not typically associated with the monitoring of lithium therapy. The primary concern is renal function.
Choice B rationale: Blood glucose is not the most critical parameter to monitor before initiating lithium therapy. The focus is on renal function.
Choice C rationale: White blood count is not the primary laboratory value to assess before starting lithium. Renal function is more critical.
Choice D rationale: Serum creatinine is the most important laboratory finding to review before beginning lithium therapy. Lithium is primarily excreted by the kidneys, and impaired renal function can lead to lithium toxicity. Regular monitoring of renal function, including serum creatinine levels, is crucial to prevent adverse effects.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale: Demonstrates thought-blocking is incorrect. Thought-blocking involves a sudden interruption in the client's speech, whereas the client in this scenario is experiencing racing thoughts.
Choice B rationale: Exhibits tangential thinking is the correct description. Tangential thinking involves presenting numerous ideas that are loosely or not at all connected. The client's statements reflect tangential thinking as she jumps from one idea to another without clear connections.
Choice C rationale: Displays the use of word salad is incorrect. Word salad refers to a mix of words and phrases that lack coherence and do not form a meaningful statement. The client's statements, though rapid, are connected and form a series of thoughts. Choice D rationale: Uses incoherent speech is incorrect. Incoherent speech implies a lack of clarity and organization in the client's verbal expression. The client's statements, while fast-paced, maintain coherence and are comprehensible.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale: Alkaline phosphatase is not typically associated with the monitoring of lithium therapy. The primary concern is renal function.
Choice B rationale: Blood glucose is not the most critical parameter to monitor before initiating lithium therapy. The focus is on renal function.
Choice C rationale: White blood count is not the primary laboratory value to assess before starting lithium. Renal function is more critical.
Choice D rationale: Serum creatinine is the most important laboratory finding to review before beginning lithium therapy. Lithium is primarily excreted by the kidneys, and impaired renal function can lead to lithium toxicity. Regular monitoring of renal function, including serum creatinine levels, is crucial to prevent adverse effects.
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