Question

To treat acute mania in a client with bipolar disorder, the physician prescribes lithium. During lithium carbonate (Lithonate) therapy, this client's serum lithium level should be maintained within which range?

1. 0.2 to 1.6 mEq/L
2. 0.8 to 1.2 mEq/L
3. 1 to 1.4 mEq/L
4. 10 to 15 mEq/L

Answer 1

The correct serum lithium level to maintain during lithium carbonate therapy for acute mania in bipolar disorder is typically between 0.8 to 1.2 mEq/L.

Step-by-step explanation:

During lithium carbonate therapy for the treatment of acute mania in a client with bipolar disorder, maintaining the correct therapeutic serum lithium level is crucial to ensure both efficacy and safety. The therapeutic range for serum lithium levels is typically between 0.6 to 1.2 mEq/L. Levels below this range may not be effective, and levels above can be toxic. Therefore, the correct range for serum lithium levels as per the options provided is 0.8 to 1.2 mEq/L.