PN NCLEX Practice Questions Related

Review PN NCLEX Practice Questions related questions and content

A client is taking lithium for management of bipolar I disorder. The client's most recent serum lithium level is 0.8 mEq/L (0.8 mmol/L). Based on this result, what prescription does the nurse anticipate receiving from the health care provider?

  • A. Continue at the current dose
  • B. Decrease the dose
  • C. Discontinue the medication
  • D. Increase the dose
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: A lithium level of 0.8 mEq/L is low (therapeutic range: 1.0-1.5 mEq/L for acute mania). Increasing the dose is likely to achieve therapeutic levels.