Question

A nurse is providing care for a client who has bipolar disorder and is experiencing acute mania. The client's morning lithium level is 1.5 mEq/L. Which of the following laboratory findings should the nurse report to the provider?

A) Erythrocyte sedimentation rate 18 mm/hr
B) Hemoglobin 15 g/dL
C) Serum T4 5 mcg/dL
D) Sodium level 125 mEq/L

Answer 1

The nurse should report the sodium level of 125 mEq/L to the provider as this indicates hyponatremia, which can increase the risk of lithium toxicity.

Step-by-step explanation:

The subject of this question is Medicine, and it pertains to the care of a client with bipolar disorder whose morning lithium level is 1.5 mEq/L. Among the laboratory findings, the one that should be reported to the provider is option D) Sodium level 125 mEq/L. This level signifies hyponatremia, which means lower-than-normal levels of sodium in the blood. Hyponatremia is a concern especially in patients treated with lithium, as it can increase the risk of lithium toxicity. While other options, including an elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate, or an abnormal serum T4, might also warrant attention, the sodium level is a critical electrolyte balance issue directly related to lithium therapy and must be addressed urgently.

Answer 2

The nurse should report the sodium level of 125 mEq/L to the provider as it indicates hyponatremia, which can affect lithium treatment for bipolar disorder.

The correct answer is D) Sodium level 125 mEq/L

Step-by-step explanation:

The client who has bipolar disorder and is being treated with lithium has a morning lithium level of 1.5 mEq/L. The nurse should report the sodium level of 125 mEq/L to the provider.

This value represents hyponatremia, which is a lower-than-normal level of sodium in the blood. Hyponatremia can be particularly concerning in the context of bipolar treatment as it may affect the distribution and excretion of lithium, potentially leading to toxicity.