Question

The nurse is caring for a patient who takes the anti-mania drug Lithobid. The nurse notices a client's lithium carbonate level is elevated at 2.1 mEq/L . What action should the nurse implement?

Select one:
a. Do not give the medication and notify the primary care provider.
b. Administer the next scheduled dose as ordered.
c. Instruct the client to not drink any fluids.
d. Ensure client safety by placing the client on strict bedrest.

Answer 1

The nurse should not give the medication and notify the primary care provider when a patient's lithium carbonate level is elevated at 2.1 mEq/L, as this indicates potential lithium toxicity.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse is caring for a patient who takes the anti-mania drug Lithobid (lithium carbonate) and notices that the patient's lithium level is elevated at 2.1 mEq/L. Therapeutic lithium levels typically range from 0.6 to 1.2 mEq/L. Elevated lithium levels can lead to toxicity. The correct action for the nurse to take in this situation would be to not give the medication and notify the primary care provider immediately.

It is essential that the patient does not receive more lithium until the healthcare provider assesses the situation and provides further instructions. High lithium levels can cause serious adverse effects, and urgent medical intervention may be required to prevent complications.