A nurse is discharging a client who is receiving lithium for treatment of a bipolar disorder. It is most important for the nurse to provide which instruction to the client?

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Lithium is a mood stabilizer most often used to treat bipolar affective disorders. It has a narrow therapeutic index (0.6-1.2 mEq/L [0.6-1.2 mmol/L]). Risk factors for lithium toxicity include dehydration, decreased renal function (in the elderly), diet low in sodium, and drug-drug interactions (eg, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs [NSAIDS] and thiazide diuretics). Chronic toxicity can result in: Neurologic manifestations - ataxia, confusion or agitation, and neuromuscular excitability (tremor, myoclonic jerks) Nephrogenic diabetes insipidus - polyuria and polydipsia (increased thirst) (Option D) Clients should be educated about monitoring for these symptoms and obtaining serum lithium levels at regular intervals. (Option A) Dietary potassium should be avoided when taking drugs such as potassium-sparing diuretics (eg, spironolactone, triamterene, amiloride) and angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors or angiotensin receptor blockers. (Option B) Regular exercise and a high-fiber diet can prevent constipation, which is not a known side effect of lithium. Opioids, anticholinergics, and iron supplements are medications that cause constipation. (Option C) Good oral hygiene is ideal for every client but is not specially indicated for those taking lithium. Clients taking phenytoin should maintain oral hygiene to prevent gingival hyperplasia. Educational objective: Risk factors for lithium toxicity include dehydration, decreased renal function, low-sodium diet, and drug-drug interactions (eg, NSAIDs and thiazide diuretics). Chronic toxicity manifests with neurologic symptoms (ataxia, confusion or agitation, and neuromuscular excitability) and/or diabetes insipidus (polyuria and polydipsia).

A Nurse Is Discharging a Client Who Is Receiving Lithium