Practice Question
A nurse is teaching a client who has a new prescription for lithium to treat bipolar disorder. The nurse should instruct the client to ensure an adequate intake of which of the following dietary elements?
Answer Choices:
Correct Answer:
Sodium
Rationale:
🔷 Sodium plays a key role in regulating lithium levels in the body; low sodium can cause the kidneys to retain lithium, increasing the risk of toxicity.
🔷 Clients taking lithium must maintain a consistent sodium intake and stay hydrated to prevent fluctuations in serum lithium levels.
🔷 Educating clients about diet and fluid balance is essential to reduce serious adverse effects like tremors or seizures.
🔷 The nurse should also caution the client about diuretics or dehydration, which can also increase lithium levels.
🔷 Regular monitoring of lithium levels and electrolytes is critical during therapy.
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This question is from RN ATI Mental Health Exam 3 which contains 51 questions.
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Question Details
- Category: RN Nursing Exam(s)
- Subcategory: ATI Exam(s)
- Domain: RN ATI Mental Health
- Answer Choices: 4