Which of the following nursing interventions should a nurse perform when caring for a female client with mood disorder who is prescribed lithium?
Instruct to resume regular activities such as driving.
Administer lithium before meals.
Withhold if serum level is less than 1.5 mEq.
Instruct to avoid breastfeeding.
The Correct Answer is D
A. Instruct to resume regular activities such as driving. It is not safe to instruct the client to resume activities like driving immediately, especially at the beginning of lithium therapy, as lithium can cause side effects that may impair the client's ability to safely perform tasks such as driving.
B. Administer lithium before meals. Lithium is typically taken with food to minimize gastrointestinal upset. Administering it before meals may increase the risk of side effects like nausea.
C. Withhold if serum level is less than 1.5 mEq. Lithium should be withheld if the serum level is above the therapeutic range (typically 0.6–1.2 mEq/L), as higher levels can lead to toxicity. Withholding lithium if the level is less than 1.5 mEq/L is incorrect and could lead to inadequate treatment.
D. Instruct to avoid breastfeeding. Lithium is excreted in breast milk and can pose a risk to the infant, so the client should be advised against breastfeeding while on lithium therapy.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Generalized pain: Generalized pain is not a typical early sign of deterioration following a hemorrhagic stroke.
B. Alteration in level of consciousness (LOC): An alteration in LOC is often the earliest and most sensitive sign of neurological deterioration in clients who have had a hemorrhagic stroke. This can indicate increased intracranial pressure or further bleeding.
C. Tonic-clonic seizures: While seizures can occur after a stroke, they are not typically the earliest sign of deterioration. Changes in LOC usually precede seizure activity.
D. Shortness of breath: Shortness of breath may indicate respiratory issues but is not directly related to early neurological deterioration following a stroke.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Assisting the client with meals: Assisting the client with meals is appropriate, as clients with dysphagia may need help to ensure safe swallowing and to avoid choking or aspiration.
B. Placing food on the affected side of the mouth: This is contraindicated because placing food on the affected side could increase the risk of choking or aspiration, as the client may not have adequate control over swallowing on the affected side.
C. Testing the gag reflex before offering food or fluids: Testing the gag reflex is appropriate for ensuring that the client has an intact protective reflex before eating or drinking, reducing the risk of aspiration.
D. Allowing ample time to eat: Allowing the client ample time to eat is important to prevent rushing, which could increase the risk of choking or aspiration. It ensures that the client can safely swallow their food.
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