Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 94%
Simulated
A client who is prescribed lithium carbonate is being discharged from inpatient care. Which medication information should the nurse teach this client?
Correct answer
D
Rationale
The correct answer is D: Do not reduce normal dietary sodium intake. Lithium is excreted by the kidneys, and reducing sodium intake can increase lithium reabsorption, leading to higher lithium levels and potential toxicity. It is crucial for the client to maintain a consistent sodium intake to keep lithium levels stable.
A: Limiting fluid intake to 1000 mL per day is not necessary unless advised by a healthcare provider as excessive fluid restriction can lead to dehydration.
B: Adjusting the dose without healthcare provider guidance can be dangerous and lead to lithium toxicity.
C: Having serum lithium levels checked every 6 months is important, but it is not the immediate action the client needs to take upon discharge.
E, F, G: No additional choices provided.
A: Limiting fluid intake to 1000 mL per day is not necessary unless advised by a healthcare provider as excessive fluid restriction can lead to dehydration.
B: Adjusting the dose without healthcare provider guidance can be dangerous and lead to lithium toxicity.
C: Having serum lithium levels checked every 6 months is important, but it is not the immediate action the client needs to take upon discharge.
E, F, G: No additional choices provided.