Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 74%
Simulated
A nurse is reinforcing teaching with a client who takes lithium carbonate for bipolar disorder. For which of the following findings should the nurse monitor as an adverse effect of lithium carbonate?
Correct answer
A
Rationale
The correct answer is A: Thyroid enlargement. Lithium carbonate can lead to hypothyroidism, causing thyroid enlargement. The nurse should monitor for signs such as weight gain, fatigue, and cold intolerance. Choice B, constipation, is not a common adverse effect of lithium. Choice C, hyporeflexia, is not typically associated with lithium use. Choice D, elevated blood pressure, is more commonly seen with other medications used for bipolar disorder.