A nurse is preparing to administer medications to a female client ...

[BRWH]

A nurse is preparing to administer medications to a female client with bipolar disorder who is experiencing acute mania. Which of the following would be most appropriate for the nurse to do?
 
  A) Tell the client firmly that she must take her medication.
  B) Allow the client to participate in the treatment decision.
  C) Restrain the client before administering the medication.
  D) Notify the physician about the client's refusal of the medication.

Question 2

A client with bipolar disorder, having experienced a depressive episode, is prescribed lamotrigine. After educating the client on this medication, the nurse determines that the education was successful when the client states which of the following?
 
  A) I need to notify my physician if I develop a skin rash.
  B) I need to have my blood tested about once a month.
  C) I have to watch how much salt I use every day.
  D) This drug can affect my liver function.

[ong527]

Answer to Question 1

Ans: B
Even during the most acute episodes, it is important for clients to have a sense of empowerment and participation in treatment. Therefore the nurse would allow the client to participate in treatment decisions. Telling the client firmly that she must take the medication or restraining her would be inappropriate. Notifying the physician would be appropriate only if the client continued to refuse to take the medication after allowing her to participate in the decisions.

Answer to Question 2

Ans: A
Lamotrigine has a boxed warning for skin rash, which should be reported immediately if it develops. In most cases the rash is benign, but it is not possible to predict whether the rash is benign or serious (Stevens-Johnson syndrome). Blood testing is needed for other mood stabilizers such as lithium, divalproex, and carbamazepine. Salt is a concern with lithium therapy. Liver function can be affected by carbamazepine.

[BRWH]

Excellent

[upturnedfurball]

Great answer, keep it coming