Author Question: A client began taking lithium carbonate (Lithobid) for the treatment of bipolar disorder ... (Read 118 times)

rlane42 · **on:** Jul 19, 2018

A client began taking lithium carbonate (Lithobid) for the treatment of bipolar disorder approximately 1 month ago. The client asks if it is normal to have gained 12 pounds in this time frame. Which is the appropriate nursing response?

1. That's strange. Weight loss is the typical pattern.
2. What have you been eating? Weight gain is not usually associated with lithium.
3. Weight gain is a common, but troubling, side effect.
4. Weight gain only occurs during the first month of treatment with this drug.

Question 2

A client diagnosed with major depressive disorder asks, What part of my brain controls my emotions? Which nursing response is appropriate?

1. The occipital lobe governs perceptions, judging them as positive or negative.2. The parietal lobe has been linked to depression.3. The medulla regulates key biological and psychological activities.4. The limbic system is largely responsible for one's emotional state.

Joc · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 19, 2018

Answer to Question 1

3
Rationale: The nurse should explain to the client that weight gain is a common side effect of lithium carbonate. The nurse should educate the client on the importance of medication adherence and discuss concerns with the prescribing physician if the client does not wish to continue taking the medication.

Answer to Question 2

4
Rationale: The nurse should explain to the client that the limbic system is largely responsible for one's emotional state. This system if often called the emotional brain and is associated with feelings, sexuality, and social behavior. The occipital lobes are the area of visual reception and interpretation. Somatosensory input (touch, taste, temperature, etc.) occurs in the parietal lobes. The medulla contains vital centers that regulate heart rate and reflexes.