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 C
Explanation
Rationale:
A. ECT is actually indicated for clients with severe depression or suicidal ideation when rapid symptom relief is necessary.
B. ECT is primarily used for acute treatment, not for relapse prevention. Maintenance medications are typically used to prevent relapse.
C. ECT can be an effective treatment for clients with severe manic episodes, especially when other treatments have failed or the client is a danger to themselves or others.
D. ECT is not first-line; mood stabilizers and antipsychotics are typically used first. ECT is reserved for treatment-resistant or severe cases.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Bipolar I disorder involves episodes of full mania, not just hypomania.
B. Bipolar II disorder is characterized by alternating episodes of hypomania and major depression (often mild to moderate).
C. Cyclothymic disorder involves milder mood swings but does not meet criteria for hypomania or major depression.
D. Schizophrenia is a psychotic disorder, not primarily a mood disorder with hypomanic and depressive episodes.
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