Final answer:
The correct answer is b) 'I need to have regular blood tests to monitor lithium levels.' Lithium usage requires monitoring due to its narrow therapeutic range, and patients should not limit fluids or stop taking the medication abruptly. Also, caffeine can affect lithium levels and is not recommended.
Step-by-step explanation:
When treating bipolar disorders with medications such as lithium, client education about potential adverse effects is crucial. The correct answer to the question is: b) "I need to have regular blood tests to monitor lithium levels." This is because lithium has a narrow therapeutic range and its levels in the blood need to be maintained within this range to be effective and to prevent toxicity.
Answer a) is incorrect because patients on lithium should maintain adequate fluid intake to prevent dehydration, as dehydration can increase lithium levels and potentially lead to toxicity. Answer c) is also incorrect; lithium treatment for bipolar disorder should not be stopped abruptly without consulting a healthcare professional, as it may lead to a relapse or worsening of symptoms. As for answer d), taking lithium with caffeinated beverages is typically not recommended because caffeine can decrease lithium levels in the body and could potentially reduce its effectiveness.
Aside from lithium, treatment for bipolar disorder can include a combination of psychotherapy, deep-brain stimulation, and medication management encompassing mood stabilizers, blood pressure medication, and various classes of antipsychotics. Less commonly, treatments may also involve electroconvulsive therapy or selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) depending on individual patient circumstances.