Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 95%
Simulated
A client prescribed lithium carbonate for the treatment of bipolar disorder has a medication blood level of 1.6 mEq/L (1.6 mmol/L). Which assessment question should the nurse ask to determine whether the client is experiencing signs of lithium toxicity associated with this level?
Correct answer
D
Rationale
Normal lithium levels are between 0.8 to 1.2 mEq/L (0.8 to 1.2 mmol/L). One of the most common early signs of lower level lithium toxicity is gastrointestinal (GI) disturbances such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. The assessment questions in options 1, 2, and 3 are related to the findings in lithium toxicity at higher levels.