NCLEX Question of the Day
Reduction of Risk Potential QID 371
A client has been prescribed lithium carbonate for bipolar disorder. Which electrolyte imbalance should the nurse monitor to prevent lithium toxicity?
Explanation
Lithium carbonate has a narrow therapeutic index and can become toxic if serum levels are too high. Hyponatremia can cause the kidneys to reabsorb lithium leading to an increased risk of toxicity. Monitoring for signs of low sodium and maintaining a normal sodium diet can help prevent lithium toxicity. The other electrolyte imbalances listed do not have the same direct impact on lithium levels.
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