Mood Stabilizers
Mood Stabilizers ( 5 Questions)
A nurse is caring for a client who is taking lithium carbonate (Lithobid) for bipolar disorder. The client reports vomiting and diarrhea for the past 24 hr. Which of the following statements by the client indicates to the nurse that they understand how to manage these adverse effects?
Choice A is wrong because stopping the medication abruptly can cause withdrawal symptoms and relapse of bipolar disorder. The client should continue taking the medication as prescribed and report any adverse effects to the provider.
Choice B is wrong because taking an extra dose of the medication can increase the risk of lithium toxicity, which can be life-threatening. The client should not adjust the dosage without consulting the provider.
This is because lithium carbonate can cause fluid and electrolyte imbalance, especially when the client has vomiting and diarrhea. Drinking fluids can help maintain hydration and prevent lithium toxicity, which can cause tremors, confusion, nausea, and muscle weakness.
Choice D is wrong because taking an antacid can alter the absorption of lithium carbonate and affect its blood levels. The client should avoid taking any other medications without consulting the provider.
This is because lithium carbonate can cause fluid and electrolyte imbalance, especially when the client has vomiting and diarrhea. Drinking fluids can help maintain hydration and prevent lithium toxicity, which can cause tremors, confusion, nausea, and muscle weakness.
Choice A is wrong because stopping the medication abruptly can cause withdrawal symptoms and relapse of bipolar disorder. The client should continue taking the medication as prescribed and report any adverse effects to the provider.
Choice B is wrong because taking an extra dose of the medication can increase the risk of lithium toxicity, which can be life-threatening. The client should not adjust the dosage without consulting the provider.
Choice D is wrong because taking an antacid can alter the absorption of lithium carbonate and affect its blood levels. The client should avoid taking any other medications without consulting the provider.
Normal ranges for lithium carbonate are 0.6 to 1.2 mEq/L for maintenance therapy and 1.0 to 1.5 mEq/L for acute mania. The client should have regular blood tests to monitor the lithium levels and adjust the dosage accordingly.