The nurse is caring for a patient who is to start taking Carbolith (lithium) 300 mg three times daily. Which of the following statements should be included in the patient teaching? Select all that apply.
A) "You will need to have blood levels checked frequently for the first few months of treatment."
B) "You should report any muscle twitches or change in coordination since those could be symptoms of too much medication in your system."
C) "This medication will help level out your mood."
D) "Please make sure you limit your fluid intake to three glasses of liquid per day."
E) "Avoid dairy products while you are taking this medication."
F) "You must have a baseline electromyelogram before you start this medication."

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Lithium requires regular blood level monitoring to ensure therapeutic levels and avoid toxicity. Muscle twitches or coordination changes can indicate toxicity. Lithium is used to stabilize mood in conditions like bipolar disorder. Limiting fluid intake is incorrect as adequate hydration is important, and there are no dietary restrictions regarding dairy or need for an electromyelogram before starting lithium.

The Nurse Is Caring for a Patient Who Is to Start