Question

Multiple-choice question: When a patient is prescribed oral lithium 300 mg three times a day, the nurse should instruct the patient to contact the physician if he or she experiences: Exercise 3.46 A. Metallic taste B. Urinary frequency C. Loose stools D. Th irst

Short answer

The correct answer is C. Loose Stools.

Step-by-step solution

Identify the Drug

The question talks about lithium, which is a mood stabilizer commonly used in the treatment of bipolar disorder.

Research Lithium Side Effects

Research and understand that the common side effects of lithium include increased thirst, urination, and a metallic taste. However, it's important to differentiate between common side effects and those that should cause concern.

Analyze the Choices

A metallic taste, increased thirst, and urination are common side effects of lithium. However, the presence of loose stools is not a common side effect of lithium and could signify a gastrointestinal issue that requires medical attention.

Key concepts

Nursing Medication Management

Effective nursing medication management is critical for ensuring patient safety and optimal therapeutic outcomes. It involves a comprehensive understanding of pharmacological principles, accurate medication administration, and continuous monitoring of patient responses. Nurses are responsible for assessing a patient’s health status, determining medication plans, and educating patients on proper medication use, including potential side effects and interactions.

It's essential for nurses to stay informed about their patient's medications, such as lithium, which requires careful monitoring due to its narrow therapeutic range. Through diligent management practices, including the use of medication reconciliation and adherence to evidence-based protocols, nurses can prevent medication errors and enhance patient care.

Lithium Side Effects

Lithium is widely recognized for its efficacy in managing bipolar disorder, but it comes with a spectrum of side effects that healthcare providers must closely monitor. Common side effects include increased thirst, frequent urination, and a metallic taste in the mouth. These are generally not alarming but indicate the need for routine monitoring of lithium levels in the blood.

However, side effects such as persistent diarrhea or loose stools can signal toxicity or an adverse reaction, necessitating immediate medical evaluation. Recognizing these symptoms is crucial for nurses, as prompt action could prevent more severe complications associated with lithium therapy, such as dehydration or electrolyte imbalances.

Patient Education in Nursing

Patient education is an integral part of nursing care, as it empowers individuals to take an active role in managing their own health. When educating patients, it's important to communicate clearly and tailor the information to the patient’s learning style and level of understanding. With medications like lithium, nurses need to emphasize adherence to the prescribed regimen, the importance of regular blood tests, and the necessity of staying hydrated.

Teaching patients about recognizing early signs of side effects and when to seek medical attention prevents complications and enhances treatment efficacy. Effective patient education promotes autonomy, improves health outcomes, and fosters a collaborative relationship between the patient and the healthcare team.