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.
"This medication can cause nausea and drowsiness."
"You will be placed on a low-sodium diet while taking this medication."
"Blurred vision is an expected adverse effect of this medication."
"This medication can cause weight gain."
"It will take at least a week before this medication reachesa therapeutic level."
Correct Answer : A,D,E
A. "This medication can cause nausea and drowsiness.": Gastrointestinal upset and central nervous system effects such as drowsiness are common early adverse effects of lithium therapy. Clients should be informed so they can recognize mild side effects versus signs of toxicity.
B. "You will be placed on a low-sodium diet while taking this medication.": Lithium requires a consistent, not low, sodium intake. Low sodium can increase lithium reabsorption in the kidneys, raising the risk of toxicity. Emphasizing a consistent dietary sodium intake is important rather than restricting sodium.
C. "Blurred vision is an expected adverse effect of this medication.": Blurred vision is not an expected side effect of lithium and may indicate toxicity or another ocular issue. Clients should report changes in vision promptly rather than consider them routine.
D. "This medication can cause weight gain.": Weight gain is a known side effect of lithium therapy due to fluid retention and metabolic changes. Clients and caregivers should be aware to monitor weight and maintain healthy lifestyle practices.
E. "It will take at least a week before this medication reaches a therapeutic level.": Lithium requires several days to reach a therapeutic blood level, and effects on mood stabilization are gradual. Educating the client about delayed onset helps set realistic expectations and encourages adherence.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. BUN 22 mg/dL (10 to 20 mg/dL): A slightly elevated BUN indicates mild renal impairment or dehydration but does not typically require withholding enoxaparin. Monitoring renal function is important, but this value alone is not a contraindication for anticoagulation.
B. WBC count 15,000/mm3 (5,000 to 10,000/mm3): An elevated WBC suggests possible infection or inflammation. While it may warrant further assessment, it does not directly increase the risk of bleeding and is not a reason to withhold enoxaparin.
C. Urine specific gravity 1.04 (1.005 to 1.03): A high specific gravity may indicate dehydration but is not a contraindication for enoxaparin administration. The medication can be given with caution while monitoring renal function and fluid status.
D. Platelets 80,000/mm3 (150,000 to 400,000/mm3): Thrombocytopenia significantly increases the risk of bleeding while on enoxaparin, which is an anticoagulant. Withholding the dose and notifying the provider is essential to prevent hemorrhagic complications and ensure safe management of the client.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Assess for bladder distention: A full bladder can prevent the uterus from contracting effectively, leading to a boggy fundus and increased risk of postpartum hemorrhage. Assessing and addressing bladder distention is the priority because it directly impacts uterine tone and hemorrhage prevention.
B. Apply supplemental oxygen via nonrebreather mask: Oxygen may be necessary if the client shows signs of hypoxia or shock, but it does not address the primary cause of a boggy uterus. The priority is to correct the underlying issue affecting uterine contraction.
C. Administer intramuscular methylergonovine: Methylergonovine is used to promote uterine contraction, but pharmacologic intervention should follow initial assessment to identify reversible causes such as bladder distention. Administering medication without assessment could overlook a correctable mechanical issue.
D. Analyze coagulation studies: Coagulation studies are important if bleeding persists or coagulopathy is suspected, but they are not the immediate priority in a client with a boggy fundus shortly after birth. Immediate interventions to promote uterine contraction take precedence.
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