A client is receiving lithium carbonate (Eskalith) for the ...

[TFauchery]

A client is receiving lithium carbonate (Eskalith) for the treatment of mania. The nurse would reinforce which teaching component regarding lithium treatment?
 
  A) Obtain scheduled lithium levels.
  B) Watch for low urine output.
  C) Give medication on an empty stomach.
  D) Decrease fluid intake to prevent edema.

Question 2

A client was admitted to the psychiatric unit after being picked up by police officers who found her frantically running back and forth across the freeway. Her husband related that she stayed up all night, ate very little, and talked incessantly.
 
  Additional assessment findings that indicate a manic episode include what?
 
  A) Psychomotor retardation, fatigue, and apathy
  B) Pressured speech, combative behavior, and impaired judgment
  C) Catatonic excitement, loose associations, and recurrent illusions
  D) Self-destructive behavior, overidealization, and devaluation

[frankwu0507]

Answer to Question 1

Ans: A
There is a narrow range between therapeutic lithium levels and lithium toxicity. It is important to obtain scheduled drug levels to prevent toxicity from occurring. The nurse should monitor for polyuria. Teaching includes taking the medication with food or milk after meals and ensuring an adequate daily intake of fluid (2,500 to 3,000 mL) daily.

Answer to Question 2

Ans: B
A manic episode would be characterized by pressured speech, potentially combative behavior, and impaired judgment. Neither psychomotor retardation is present nor are recurrent illusions. Self-destructive behavior is not a classic symptom of mania; more often, clients may have accidents caused by their lack of judgment and psychomotor agitation.