Question

A client with hyperthyroidism is taking lithium carbonate to inhibit thyroid hormone release. Which complaint by the client should alert the nurse to a problem with the client's medication? A. The client complains of blurred vision. B. The client complains of increased thirst and increased urination. C. The client complains of increased weight gain over the past year. D. The client complains of changes in taste.

Short answer

Answer: B. The client complains of increased thirst and increased urination.

Step-by-step solution

Research and list the common side effects of lithium carbonate

Lithium carbonate is a medication used to treat several conditions, including hyperthyroidism. Some common side effects of lithium carbonate include: - Increased thirst and urination - Hand tremors - Diarrhea - Vomiting - Dizziness - Tiredness - Changes in appetite - Dry mouth - Increased saliva production - Changes in taste

Match the complaints in the given options with the side effects of lithium carbonate

Now, we will compare the complaints given in the options to the list of side effects from Step 1: Option A - Blurred Vision: This complaint is not in the list of common side effects. Option B - Increased thirst and urination: This complaint matches the mentioned side effects of lithium carbonate. Option C - Increased weight gain: This complaint is not directly related to the side effects of lithium carbonate, as changes in appetite can lead to weight gain or loss, but it's not specifically mentioned. Option D - Changes in taste: This complaint is in the list of common side effects but is not a major concern compared to increased thirst and urination which can lead to more severe complications like dehydration.

Identify the complaint that is most closely related to a problem with the client's medication

Based on our analysis, the complaint that best matches the common side effects of lithium carbonate, and is most likely to signal a problem with the client's medication, is: B. The client complains of increased thirst and increased urination. This complaint is directly related to the side effects of lithium carbonate and can lead to complications if not addressed properly.

Key concepts

Lithium Carbonate Side Effects

As an important medication for certain psychiatric conditions and hyperthyroidism, lithium carbonate can have several side effects that patients and nursing staff should be aware of.

One of the more prevailing side effects includes increased thirst and urination. This symptom stems from lithium's impact on the kidneys, which can affect the body's ability to concentrate urine, leading to polyuria and polydipsia. Other side effects include hand tremors, which may be dose-related and can diminish with time, or with a reduced dose. Gastrointestinal upset, such as diarrhea and vomiting, can also occur and may subside as the body adjusts to the medication.

Neurological effects, like dizziness and tiredness, are common and can impact the patient’s quality of life. Patients may experience changes in appetite and dry mouth or increased saliva production. Alterations in taste, although not as concerning as some side effects, can still be distressing to the patient. It is crucial for nursing professionals to monitor these symptoms and communicate with the prescribing physician to manage any adverse effects effectively.

The occurrence of these side effects, particularly increased thirst and urination, should prompt immediate nursing intervention to prevent more serious complications such as dehydration, which can exacerbate the condition and lead to hospitalization.

Hyperthyroidism Treatment

Hyperthyroidism, a condition where the thyroid gland produces excessive hormones, requires careful management.

Options for treating hyperthyroidism often include antithyroid medications like methimazole or propylthiouracil, which inhibit hormone production. Beta-blockers may also be prescribed to manage symptoms such as rapid heart rate and tremors. For longer-term solutions, radioactive iodine therapy is popular because it can effectively shrink the thyroid gland, reducing hormone output. Surgery is another option, typically reserved as a last resort or for cases where the thyroid gland is significantly enlarged or suspected to be cancerous.

Lithium carbonate is less commonly used but can be prescribed to inhibit thyroid hormone release, particularly if patients cannot tolerate antithyroid medications or have a contraindication to radioactive iodine treatment. Patients taking lithium should be educated about the importance of regular blood tests to monitor thyroid function and lithium levels, as well as recognize the side effects and know when to seek medical attention.

Nursing Pharmacology

Nursing pharmacology involves the study of how drugs interact with the human body and the role of the nurse in administering medications and monitoring patient responses.

Understanding pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics is essential for accurate medication management, ensuring that doses are therapeutic but not toxic. Nurses must be well-versed in the indications, contraindications, dosing, side effects, and interactions of medications. Patient education is another critical aspect of nursing pharmacology; nurses are in a unique position to explain why a drug is prescribed, how to take it properly, and what potential side effects to expect.

In the context of hyperthyroidism treatment and lithium carbonate administration, nursing pharmacology involves a careful balancing act. Nurses need to assess patients for signs of toxicity, effectiveness of the medication, and be prepared to take prompt action in case of side effects, such as increased thirst and urination. Clear communication with the healthcare team and the patient is paramount to ensure safe and effective treatment outcomes.