A client has been started on therapy with lithium carbonate ...

[Jipu 123]

A client has been started on therapy with lithium carbonate (Lithobid). The nurse instructs the client to do which of the following?
 
  1. Limit salt intake.
  2. Limit food intake.
  3. Maintain a fluid intake of 2 to 3 L/day.
  4. Stop the medication if gastrointestinal (GI) disturbances occur.

Question 2

The nurse is administering thioridazine hydrochloride (Mellaril). The nurse will monitor the client carefully for which of the following?
 
  1. Weight gain
  2. Photosensitivity
  3. Cardiac dysrhythmias
  4. Extrapyramidal movements

[CharlieArnold]

Answer to Question 1

3

Rationale: The client who begins taking lithium carbonate must maintain a fluid intake between 2 and 3 L/day. The client should also maintain normal salt intake. Both of these are necessary to avoid dehydration. GI disturbances generally disappear during continued therapy. It is not necessary to limit food intake.

Answer to Question 2

3

Rationale: Thioridazine hydrochloride (Mellaril) is an antipsychotic medication that may be prescribed for the schizophrenic client when other medications failed to help the client. Cardiac dysrhythmias are an adverse effect of thioridazine. Weight gain and extrapyramidal movements are not associated with this medication. Photosensitivity is a rare side effect.

[Jipu 123]

Great answer, keep it coming

[Sarahjh]

Excellent