• NCLEX Pretest
  • Time Used 0:00:00

The nurse assesses the patient being treated for bipolar disorder for which signs of toxicity?  

Incorrect

  • Dry mouth
  • Tachypnea
  • Tachycardia
  • Orthostatic hypotension
  • Flattened T wave on EKG
  • Increased jugular venous distention

Rationale

Lithium is used to treat bipolar disorder and can cause toxicity and nephropathy, which presents with moderate to severe dehydration (dry mouth, tachycardia, orthostatic hypotension) and cardiotoxicity (flattened T wave on EKG). Tachypnea is not necessarily a symptom of the volume depletion associated with lithium nephrotoxicity but may occur in response to acidosis if the condition is not treated appropriately. Increased jugular venous distention is a sign of fluid volume overload, not deficit as is experienced by the patient with lithium toxicity.  

  • Category: Psychosocial Integrity
  • Difficulty: 9
  • Tags: Acid-Base Elimination Fluid and Electrolytes Intracranial Regulation Mental Health Disorders Psychiatric Medications Medication and Blood Products Neurology

Question 11 of 30

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