Mental Health HESI 2023 Related

Review Mental Health HESI 2023 related questions and content

A client diagnosed with bipolar disorder tells the nurse that she wants to stop taking her lithium. She states, 'I feel fine, and I don't think I need it anymore.' What should the nurse do first?

  • A. Agree with the client that she seems fine now.
  • B. Remind the client of the importance of lithium.
  • C. Ask the healthcare provider to discontinue the lithium prescription.
  • D. Arrange for a psychiatric evaluation for the client.
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: When a client with bipolar disorder expresses a desire to stop taking lithium because they feel fine, the nurse's initial action should be to remind the client of the importance of lithium. This approach helps educate the client about the necessity of medication adherence in managing bipolar disorder. Agreeing with the client or immediately arranging a psychiatric evaluation may not address the root issue of medication non-adherence. Asking the healthcare provider to discontinue the prescription without further assessment and intervention could potentially jeopardize the client's stability and treatment plan.