ATI Mental Health Practice A Related

Review ATI Mental Health Practice A related questions and content

A patient with bipolar disorder has been prescribed lithium. Which dietary advice is important for the nurse to include?

  • A. Avoid foods high in tyramine.
  • B. Maintain a consistent salt intake.
  • C. Increase protein intake.
  • D. Avoid foods high in fat.
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Patients prescribed lithium should maintain a consistent salt intake to prevent fluctuations in lithium levels. Salt intake can impact lithium levels, and sudden changes in salt intake can affect how the body absorbs and excretes lithium. Therefore, advising the patient to maintain a stable salt intake is crucial for the effectiveness and safety of lithium therapy. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect. Avoiding foods high in tyramine is more relevant for patients taking MAOIs, not lithium. Increasing protein intake or avoiding foods high in fat are not specific dietary recommendations for patients on lithium therapy.