A client with bipolar disorder in the manic phase is started on lithium (Carbolith). The client's current lithium level is 0.4 mEq/L. What will the nurse expect to assess in this client?

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A lithium level of 0.4 mEq/L is at the lower end of the therapeutic range (0.6-1.2 mEq/L). Therefore, the client may present with continued hyperactivity and pressured speech. It may take some time to reach a therapeutic level and observe a decrease in manic behaviour. Signs and symptoms of depression are not expected in the manic phase. A return to baseline behaviour may not be achieved with just one lithium level of 0.4 mEq/L.

A Client with Bipolar Disorder in the Manic Phase Is