A Patient with Bipolar Disorder and Who Takes Lithium Telephones

A patient with bipolar disorder and who takes lithium telephones the nurse at the clinic to say,"I've had severe diarrhea for 4 days.I feel very weak and unsteady when I walk.My usual hand tremor has gotten worse.What should I do?" The nurse should advise the patient:

A) "Restrict food and fluids for 24 hours,and stay in bed."
B) "Have someone bring you to the clinic immediately."
C) "Drink a large glass of water with 1 teaspoon of salt added."
D) "Take an over-the-counter antidiarrheal medication hourly until the diarrhea subsides."