A nurse is caring for a client prescribed Lithium. Which nur… | MyMerci
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Medication AdministrationPPT
Question
A nurse is caring for a client prescribed Lithium. Which nursing action is most appropriate regarding monitoring serum lithium levels and maintaining adequate fluid and sodium intake?
1Describe that mild diarrhea and cramping are common initially but usually resolve; no routine laboratory monitoring is needed for this medication.
2Emphasize that fever, sore throat, and fatigue are expected signs of therapeutic response, not adverse effects, and will improve with continued use.
3Monitor for headache, nausea, flank pain (interstitial nephritis), and rare hypersensitivity; baseline and periodic BUN/Cr and LFT recommended
4Advise that mesalamine is typically associated with weight loss and hypoglycemia, so regular glucose checks and nutritional consults are essential.✓ Correct answer
Explanation
When administering Lithium, key nursing considerations include monitoring patient status, checking critical laboratory values, and providing appropriate safety education. Unsafe practices such as stopping medications abruptly or doubling missed doses are incorrect.