A client with bipolar disorder taking lithium tells the nurse that he has ringing in his ears, blurred vision, and diarrhea. The nurse notices a slight tremor in his left hand and a slurring pattern to his speech. Which of the following actions by the nurse is appropriate?
- Administer a stat dose of lithium as necessary.
- Recognize this as an expected response to lithium.
- Request an order for a stat blood lithium level.
- Give an oral dose of lithium antidote.
Answer(s): C
Explanation:
(A) These symptoms are indicative of lithium toxicity. A stat dose of lithium could be fatal. (B) These are toxic effects of lithium therapy. (C) The client is exhibiting symptoms of lithium toxicity, which may be validated by lab studies. (D) There is no known lithium antidote.