ATI Mental Health Proctored Exam Related

Review ATI Mental Health Proctored Exam related questions and content

A nurse is reviewing laboratory findings for a client who has been taking lithium for 6 months. Which of the following findings should the nurse report to the provider?

  • A. Lithium level 0.8 mEq/L
  • B. Sodium 130 mEq/L
  • C. Creatinine 1.5 mg/dL
  • D. WBC 8,000/mm³
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Creatinine 1.5 mg/dL. This finding should be reported because an elevated creatinine level indicates impaired kidney function, which can lead to lithium toxicity. Lithium is primarily excreted by the kidneys, and impaired renal function can result in lithium accumulation in the body, increasing the risk of adverse effects. Reporting this finding promptly will allow the provider to adjust the dosage of lithium to prevent toxicity.

Choices A, B, and D are within normal ranges and do not directly indicate lithium toxicity. A lithium level of 0.8 mEq/L is within the therapeutic range (0.6-1.2 mEq/L). Sodium level of 130 mEq/L is also within normal limits. WBC count of 8,000/mm³ is normal and not directly related to lithium toxicity. Therefore, these findings do not require immediate reporting compared to the elevated creatinine level.