Psychiatric Drugs and Medications Q 4

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A nurse is giving instructions to a client receiving lithium citrate. The nurse tells the client to do which of the following to prevent lithium toxicity:

  

     A. Avoid becoming dehydrated during exercise.

     B. Instruct the client to change positions slowly.

     C. Restrict salt intake in the diet.

     D. Limit fluid intake.

    

    

Correct Answer: A. Avoid becoming dehydrated during exercise

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Lithium toxicity usually occurs during chronic treatment because of reduced drug excretion (dehydration, worsening renal function, concurrent infections, and drug interactions).

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Option B: Changes in position is not a related intervention to prevent lithium toxicity.

Options C and D: The client should maintain a fluid intake of 6-8 glasses of water a day and an adequate salt intake to prevent lithium toxicity.

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