A patient diagnosed with bipolar disorder is in the maintenance ...

[PhilipSeeMore]

A patient diagnosed with bipolar disorder is in the maintenance phase of treatment. The patient asks, Do I have to keep taking this lithium even though my mood is stable now? Select the nurse's appropriate response.
 
  a. You will be able to stop the medication in about 1 month.
  b. Taking the medication every day helps reduce the risk of a relapse.
  c. Usually patients take medication for approximately 6 months after discharge.
  d. It's unusual that the health care provider hasn't already stopped your medication.

Question 2

A nurse assesses a patient who takes lithium. Which findings demonstrate evidence of complications?
 
  a. Pharyngitis, mydriasis, and dystonia
  b. Alopecia, purpura, and drowsiness
  c. Diaphoresis, weakness, and nausea
  d. Ascites, dyspnea, and edema

[mfedorka]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: B
Patients diagnosed with bipolar disorder may be maintained on lithium indefinitely to prevent recurrences. Helping the patient understand this need will promote medication compliance.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: C
Diaphoresis, weakness, and nausea are early signs of lithium toxicity. Problems mentioned in the incorrect options are unrelated to lithium therapy.

[PhilipSeeMore]

Excellent

[tkempin]

TYSM