Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 69%
Simulated
The nurse's teaching plan for a client taking lithium should include instructions to:
Correct answer
A
Rationale
The correct answer is A. Maintaining normal salt and fluid intake is essential when taking lithium to prevent dehydration and maintain electrolyte balance. Drinking excessive fluids, as in choice B, can lead to dilution of lithium levels in the body. Avoiding certain foods like aged cheese, processed meats, and red wine, as in choice C, is more relevant for individuals taking MAOIs. Doubling the lithium dose if diarrhea or vomiting occurs, as in choice D, can lead to lithium toxicity. Thus, choice A is the most appropriate instruction for a client taking lithium.