Practice Question
A nurse is collecting data from a client who is taking lithium. Which of the following findings should the nurse identify as early manifestations of lithium toxicity? (Select all that apply)
Answer Choices:
Correct Answer:
Confusion
Rationale:
🟠Confusion
🧠 Early signs of lithium toxicity often include confusion, disorientation, or poor concentration.
🧠 These neurological symptoms occur as lithium starts affecting brain function, even before severe signs develop.
🧠 Monitoring changes in mental status is critical to prevent progression to delirium, seizures, or coma.
🧠 Nurses should promptly report any sudden cognitive changes in clients taking lithium.
🟠Nausea
🤢 Nausea is a common gastrointestinal symptom indicating early lithium accumulation.
🤢 It may be overlooked as a side effect but should raise suspicion if it’s persistent or worsening.
🤢 Nausea can signal the body’s impaired ability to excrete lithium, especially with dehydration.
🤢 Early recognition allows for dose adjustment or discontinuation before toxicity becomes severe.
🟠Polyuria
🚽 Lithium interferes with the kidney’s ability to concentrate urine, causing polyuria (excess urination).
🚽 This may lead to fluid loss, increasing the risk of lithium buildup in the bloodstream.
🚽 Clients may complain of frequent bathroom trips or excessive thirst (polydipsia).
🚽 Monitoring urine output is key to identifying renal-related early toxicity signs.
🟠Incoordination
🚶♂️ Incoordination or ataxia reflects lithium’s early effects on motor and cerebellar function.
🚶♂️ Clients may appear clumsy, have a shaky gait, or report difficulty walking or performing fine tasks.
🚶♂️ This symptom increases fall risk and often appears before full-blown toxicity develops.
🚶♂️ Nurses should assess movement changes and notify the provider immediately.
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This question is from ATI PN Mental Health~2023 Version which contains 50 questions.
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Question Details
- Category: LPN Nursing Exam(s)
- Subcategory: LPN ATI Exams
- Domain: Mental Health
- Answer Choices: 5