Author Question: A nurse receives this laboratory result: lithium level 1 mEq/L. This result is: a. within ... (Read 69 times)

Diane · **on:** Jul 19, 2018

A nurse receives this laboratory result: lithium level 1 mEq/L. This result is:

a. within therapeutic limits
b. below therapeutic limits
c. above therapeutic limits
d. incorrect because of inaccurate testing

Question 2

A patient with acute mania has exhausted the staff members by noon. The patient has joked, manipulated, insulted, and fought all morning. Staff members are feeling defensive and fatigued. Which is the best action?

a. Confer with the health care provider to consider the use of seclusion for this patient.
b. Hold a staff meeting to discuss consistency and limit-setting approaches.
c. Conduct a meeting with all patients to discuss the behavior.
d. Explain to the patient that the behavior is unacceptable.

fdliggud · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 19, 2018

Answer to Question 1

ANS: A
The normal range for a blood sample taken 8 to 12 hours after the last dose of lithium is 0.4 to 1 mEq/L.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: B
When staff members are at their wits' end, the patient has succeeded in keeping the environment unsettled and avoided outside controls on behavior. Staff meetings can help minimize staff splitting and feelings of anger, helplessness, confusion, and frustration.