The nurse is continuing to care for the client.
The nurse is providing teaching about lithium to the client and the client's adult child.
Select the 3 statements the nurse should include.
"Blurred vision is an expected adverse effect of this medication,"
"This medication can cause weight gain."
"This medication can cause nausea and drowsiness."
"It will take at least a week before this medication reaches a therapeutic level."
"You will be placed on a low-sodium diet while taking this medication."
Correct Answer : B,C,D
A. "Blurred vision is an expected adverse effect of this medication." Blurred vision is not a common or expected adverse effect of lithium. If this occurs, it may indicate toxicity or another underlying issue and should be reported. It is not part of routine education for expected side effects.
B. "This medication can cause weight gain." This is true. Weight gain is a known long-term adverse effect of lithium therapy and should be discussed with the client and family as part of monitoring and lifestyle considerations during treatment.
C. "This medication can cause nausea and drowsiness." These are common initial side effects when starting lithium and usually subside over time. Clients should be aware of these effects so they can differentiate between expected reactions and signs of toxicity.
D. "It will take at least a week before this medication reaches a therapeutic level." Correct. Lithium takes 7–14 days to reach therapeutic plasma levels, so clients may not experience symptom relief immediately. During this period, supportive care and safety monitoring are essential.
E. "You will be placed on a low-sodium diet while taking this medication." This is incorrect. Lithium has a narrow therapeutic index, and sodium levels affect lithium levels. A low-sodium diet can increase the risk of lithium toxicity, so clients should maintain a consistent sodium intake, not reduce it.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Hydrocodone. This is an opioid analgesic appropriate for moderate to severe pain, such as a pain rating of 7/10. It is commonly used for acute pain management in cases like fractures and provides effective relief when non-opioids are insufficient.
B. Acetaminophen. While useful for mild to moderate pain, acetaminophen alone is likely inadequate for severe pain like that associated with a fracture rated 7/10.
C. Fentanyl. Fentanyl is a potent opioid used for severe or chronic pain, often in controlled settings such as surgery or cancer care. For an acute fracture, hydrocodone is typically preferred unless pain is extreme or uncontrolled.
D. Aspirin. Aspirin is primarily used for mild pain or anti-inflammatory purposes and is not appropriate as a first-line agent for severe pain. Additionally, it may increase the risk of bleeding, which is a consideration in trauma cases.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. "I will plan to spend time tanning between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m." UV radiation from the sun is strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., and sun exposure during this time significantly increases the risk of skin cancer. Outdoor activity should be minimized during peak hours.
B. "I will use an indoor tanning bed instead of going outside." Indoor tanning beds expose users to intense UV radiation, which also increases the risk of skin cancer. They are not a safer alternative to natural sunlight and should be avoided.
C. "I will use sunblock with an SPF of 10 when I am outdoors." SPF 10 provides minimal protection and is not adequate for skin cancer prevention. The recommended SPF is 30 or higher, applied generously and re-applied regularly.
D. "I will apply sunscreen before and after swimming." Sunscreen should be applied 15 to 30 minutes before sun exposure and re-applied every 2 hours, especially after swimming or sweating. This statement shows an understanding of proper sun protection practices.
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