Lithium: Uses, Action, and Adverse Effects
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Questions and Answers

A patient with bipolar disorder is prescribed lithium. Which of the following instructions should the nurse emphasize regarding fluid intake?

  • Restrict fluid intake to minimize the risk of hyponatremia.
  • Increase fluid intake only when experiencing manic symptoms.
  • Reduce fluid intake when experiencing depressive symptoms to avoid fluid retention.
  • Maintain a consistent daily fluid intake, especially during periods of increased sweating. (correct)

A patient taking lithium reports experiencing persistent nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. What is the priority nursing intervention?

  • Encourage the patient to continue taking the medication with food.
  • Administer an antiemetic and monitor for improvement.
  • Advise the patient to reduce the lithium dosage until symptoms subside.
  • Immediately assess the patient for signs of lithium toxicity and notify the healthcare provider. (correct)

Why is it important to routinely monitor a patient's thyroid function while they are taking lithium?

  • Lithium is known to enhance thyroid hormone production, potentially leading to hyperthyroidism.
  • Lithium can interfere with thyroid hormone synthesis, increasing the risk of hypothyroidism. (correct)
  • Thyroid issues can mask the symptoms of bipolar disorder, complicating lithium treatment.
  • Thyroid function monitoring helps to adjust lithium dosages for optimal mood stabilization.

A patient on lithium is also prescribed a thiazide diuretic for hypertension. What potential interaction should the nurse monitor for?

<p>Increased risk of lithium toxicity due to decreased renal excretion. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which statement best describes how lithium helps in the management of bipolar disorder?

<p>It stabilizes mood by influencing neurotransmitter systems and neuronal excitability. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following assessment findings would warrant withholding lithium and contacting the prescriber immediately?

<p>Serum lithium level of 1.8 mEq/L and ataxia. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with bipolar disorder who is stable on lithium presents with new onset of a persistent, dry cough. Which of the following actions is most appropriate?

<p>Assess the patient for other signs of respiratory infection and notify the prescriber. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient on lithium develops hypothyroidism. What changes to the lithium prescription should the nurse anticipate, if any?

<p>The lithium dose may need to be adjusted, and thyroid supplementation may be initiated. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A young adult with bipolar disorder is started on lithium. Which of the following instructions is most important to emphasize regarding pregnancy and family planning?

<p>Effective contraception is crucial due to the risks associated with lithium exposure during pregnancy. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient taking lithium is scheduled for elective surgery requiring general anesthesia. What specific instruction should the nurse provide regarding their lithium dosage prior to the procedure?

<p>Withhold the lithium dose the night before and the morning of surgery, and consult with the provider. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient taking lithium reports increased thirst and frequent urination. What initial assessment should the nurse prioritize?

<p>Evaluate the patient’s kidney function and lithium level. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with bipolar disorder is prescribed lithium. Which of the following statements indicates the patient understands important dietary considerations while taking this medication?

<p>&quot;I need to maintain a consistent sodium intake to help regulate lithium levels.&quot; (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient on lithium is also prescribed ibuprofen for occasional headaches. What potential interaction should the nurse discuss with the patient?

<p>Ibuprofen can increase lithium levels, potentially leading to toxicity. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A nurse is providing education to a patient who is starting lithium therapy. Which of the following statements about monitoring parameters is most accurate?

<p>&quot;Regular monitoring of kidney and thyroid function is important, even if you feel well.&quot; (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with bipolar disorder who has been stable on lithium for several years develops a tremor, and is concerned about Parkinson's disease. What information should the nurse provide?

<p>Tremor is a common side effect of long-term lithium use, but there are management strategies available. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with bipolar disorder has been on lithium for several months and reports experiencing mild hand tremors that are becoming bothersome. What is the most appropriate initial nursing intervention?

<p>Educate the patient on strategies to minimize tremors, such as reducing caffeine intake, and consult with the provider about potential dose adjustments. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient presents to the emergency department with confusion, coarse tremors, and muscle twitching. The patient's medication list includes lithium. Which lab value is most important for the nurse to check first?

<p>Serum lithium level (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A nurse is assessing a patient who is prescribed lithium. Which of the following findings requires immediate intervention?

<p>Muscle weakness and uncoordinated movements. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient on lithium is started on a low-sodium diet due to hypertension. What adjustments to their lithium prescription should the nurse anticipate, if any?

<p>The lithium dose will likely need to be decreased. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following instructions is most crucial for a patient who is being discharged from the hospital on lithium?

<p>Maintain a consistent daily intake of sodium and fluids. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Lithium indications

Primarily used to treat bipolar disorder (BD).

Lithium mechanism of action

Not fully understood, but it affects neurotransmitters and stabilizes mood.

Common side effects of lithium

Tremors, increased thirst, frequent urination, and weight gain.

Patient monitoring (Lithium)

Regular monitoring of lithium levels, kidney function, and thyroid function is required.

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Important patient education (Lithium)

Maintain consistent salt and fluid intake to avoid toxicity.

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Lithium's action

The exact mechanism is unknown, but it impacts neurotransmitters in the brain.

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Patient Parameters: Monitor?

Lithium levels, kidney function, and thyroid function should be regularly checked when taking the medication.

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Lithium Use

Mood stabilizer used primarily for bipolar disorder.

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Lithium's Main Action

Not completely understood, but affects neurotransmitters and neuronal signaling.

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Common Lithium Side Effects

Tremors, thirst, increased urination, nausea, and weight changes.

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Lithium Monitoring

Kidney and thyroid function, and lithium blood levels periodically.

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Lithium Patient Education

Maintain stable salt and fluid intake. Avoid dehydration.

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Related Documents

Lithium Drug Information

Description

This lesson covers lithium, a drug used to treat bipolar disorder. It details the indications for use, including euphoric mania, rapid cycling, and maintenance therapy. It also includes considerations for prescribing lithium.

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