What is the primary reason for monitoring lithium levels every two to three days until a therapeutic level is obtained?
To prevent symptoms of toxicity
To identify early signs and symptoms of relapse
To establish baseline liver function tests
To ensure the client is within the therapeutic range
The Correct Answer is A
A. Lithium has a narrow therapeutic index, meaning the difference between a therapeutic dose and a toxic dose is small. Frequent monitoring allows for early detection of rising lithium levels, preventing toxicity.
B. While monitoring lithium levels is important for overall treatment, it's not primarily used to identify relapse.
C. Lithium primarily affects the kidneys, not the liver. Liver function tests are important for overall health monitoring but are not the primary reason for frequent lithium level checks.
D. While this is a goal, the primary reason for such frequent monitoring is to prevent toxicity, which can occur rapidly.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. This principle relates to protecting patient information. It is not relevant to this scenario.
B. This principle respects the patient's right to self-determination. By disregarding the client's preference for walking with her daughter, the nursing assistant violated the client's autonomy.
C. This principle involves doing good for the patient. While the nursing assistant might have intended to benefit the client by encouraging exercise, it was done at the expense of the client's autonomy.
D. This principle involves avoiding harm to the patient. While the client was upset, there is no evidence of physical harm in this situation.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Preferring to eat meals while watching TV is a common behavior that is not specifically associated with suicidal ideation. It may simply reflect the adolescent's comfort or routine preferences rather than a sign of continued suicidal intent.
B. Giving away personal belongings, such as a CD collection, can be a sign that the adolescent is making arrangements for their belongings in case of death. This behavior can sometimes suggest that the individual may be planning for their end, which could indicate lingering suicidal thoughts. It's important to explore this behavior further with the adolescent to understand their intentions and state of mind.
C. While avoidance of discussing the suicide attempt may indicate emotional distress or a reluctance to engage, it does not directly point to ongoing suicidal intent. It could also reflect a desire for privacy or difficulty in expressing feelings, rather than a clear indication of suicidal ideation.
D. Adolescents often express a desire to spend more time with peers rather than family, which is a common developmental behavior. This preference alone does not necessarily indicate suicidal intent and is more reflective of typical adolescent social behavior.
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