The nurse is admitting a male client who takes lithium carbonate twice a day. Which information should the nurse report to the healthcare provider immediately?

Five-pound (2.3 kg) weight gain.
Nausea and vomiting.
Short-term memory loss.
Depressed affect.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale:
A five-pound weight gain in a client taking lithium carbonate is significant. however, the timeframe of the weightgain is to be known. Choice B rationale:
Nausea and vomiting are known side effects of lithium that should be reported as they can cause electrolyte imbalance.
Choice C rationale:
Short-term memory loss is a potential side effect of lithium, but it may not require immediate reporting unless it significantly affects the client's daily functioning or is associated with other concerning symptoms.
Choice D rationale:
A depressed affect is a symptom that should be addressed as part of the client's ongoing psychiatric care, but it may not warrant immediate reporting unless it is severe and requires a change in the treatment plan. The priority in this case is the potential lithium toxicity indicated by the weight gain.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Weekly monitoring of blood pressure and symptoms is important but does not address the specific issue of chest pain on exertion.
Choice B rationale:
Encouraging daily walking is generally a good recommendation for overall health but does not address the immediate concern of chest pain.
Choice C rationale:
Taking up to 4 nitroglycerine tablets for chest pain may provide temporary relief, but this should be done under the guidance of a healthcare provider and is not a long-term outcome.
Choice D rationale:
Recording episodes of angina and self-management for one week is a specific and appropriate outcome to monitor the client's chest pain and response to interventions.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Exploring changes in life that have occurred after the loss is the first action the nurse should take. This allows the nurse to assess the client's grief, identify specific stressors, and understand how the loss is impacting the client's daily life and emotional well-being. It provides valuable information for tailoring further interventions and support.
Choice B rationale:
Suggesting the need for a psychiatric consultation may be premature as the nurse should first assess the client's grief and coping mechanisms. Referral for psychiatric consultation should be considered if the client's emotional distress is severe, persistent, or significantly impacting their functioning.
Choice C rationale:
Offering a referral to pastoral counseling may be appropriate for some clients, but it should not be the first action. The nurse should assess the client's needs and preferences before making such a referral.
Choice D rationale:
Encouraging attendance at a local support group can be beneficial, but it should not be the initial step. The nurse should first assess the client's current emotional state and needs to determine the most appropriate interventions.
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