Questions and Answers
Which of the following statements of the client indicates understanding about the lithium medication?
Which of the following statements of the nurse addressing the client's question about frequent blood works is true?
Which of the following statements indicates that the client understood the medication side effects?
Which instruction should be included in discharge teaching for a client on lithium carbonate?
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Which severe signs of lithium toxicity should the client report? (Select all that apply)
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What are some manifestations of lithium toxicity?
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What instructions should be included in teaching for a client beginning to take lithium?
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Study Notes
Lithium Medication Insights
- Sodium intake does not need to be limited during lithium therapy; clients should maintain their usual salt consumption.
- Adjusting lithium dosages without laboratory evaluation can lead to toxicity, overdose, or renal failure.
- Extended-release lithium tablets must not be crushed, as they are designed for slow release; crushing leads to rapid release and potential overdose.
- Certain juices (cranberry, grapefruit) have diuretic effects and do not aid in maintaining therapeutic lithium levels.
Importance of Blood Work
- Frequent blood tests assess if lithium levels are within the therapeutic range.
- Monitoring is crucial despite consistent medication adherence, as lithium levels can fluctuate.
- Blood tests are not intended to evaluate liver function or the drug's penetration of the blood-brain barrier.
Recognizing Side Effects
- Clients should promptly report fine hand tremors or slurred speech, indicators of lithium carbonate adverse effects.
- Awareness of side effects fosters early intervention to prevent severe toxicity.
Discharge Teaching Essentials
- Clients must understand that complete blood counts (CBC) are necessary monthly to monitor lithium levels due to narrow therapeutic margins.
- Blood levels should be checked as directed to ensure safe and effective treatment.
Signs of Lithium Toxicity
- Severe toxicity symptoms include seizures, blurred vision, ataxia, and tinnitus.
- Slurred speech is an initial sign of potential toxicity; timely reporting is essential.
Additional Teaching Points
- Consistency in dietary sodium intake is vital; clients should not undergo drastic dietary changes.
- Older patients should be aware of risks like lithium-induced goiter and hypothyroidism.
- Alcohol consumption is contraindicated while on lithium.
- Over-the-counter medications should not be taken without a doctor’s approval.
- Women using contraceptives should utilize more reliable forms during lithium treatment.
- Adequate hydration (2-3 liters of fluids daily) is crucial for maintaining health while on lithium.
- Regular monitoring of lithium levels is essential for safety and efficacy.
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Description
This quiz covers key insights into the use of lithium medication, including sodium intake, dosage adjustments, and the importance of blood work. Additionally, it highlights potential side effects that clients should monitor, ensuring safe and effective treatment. Understanding these aspects is crucial for the management of lithium therapy.
