The nurse receives a laboratory report indicating a patient's serum level is 1 mEq/L. The patient's last dose of lithium was 8 hours ago. This result is
within therapeutic limits
above therapeutic limits
invalid because of the time lapse since the last dose
below therapeutic limits
The Correct Answer is A
Rationale:
A. A lithium serum level between 0.6 and 1.2 mEq/L is generally considered within the therapeutic range for maintenance treatment.
B. Above therapeutic limits would typically be >1.5 mEq/L, which increases toxicity risk.
C. While timing of blood draw is important, an 8-hour interval is acceptable for monitoring lithium levels (usually drawn 12 hours post-dose but 8 hours is still interpretable).
D. A level of 1 mEq/L is not below therapeutic limits.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["B","E"]
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Social isolation is more typical in depression or withdrawal, not acute mania, where patients are often excessively social or intrusive.
B. Impaired mood regulation is characteristic of mania, involving mood swings, irritability, and poor impulse control.
C. Imbalanced nutrition: more than body requirements is unlikely during mania; patients often have decreased appetite.
D. Chronic confusion is not typical in acute mania; cognitive impairment may be present but is usually not chronic.
E. Sleep deprivation is common in manic episodes due to decreased need for sleep and hyperactivity.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Energy drink containers may be counted because excessive caffeine intake can worsen agitation and mania symptoms. Monitoring caffeine consumption is relevant in manic episodes.
B. Hypodermic needles are not typically related to mania assessment unless substance abuse is suspected.
C. Empty soda cans may contain caffeine but energy drinks have a much higher caffeine concentration, making them more clinically relevant.
D. Fast food wrappers indicate diet but are less directly related to manic behavior management.
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