ATI Mental Health Practice Exam Related

Review ATI Mental Health Practice Exam related questions and content

A patient with bipolar disorder is prescribed lithium. What is a common side effect the nurse should monitor for?

  • A. Increased energy
  • B. Constipation
  • C. Weight gain
  • D. Dry mouth
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Weight gain. Lithium is known to cause weight gain as a common side effect in patients with bipolar disorder. This is due to its impact on the body's metabolism and hormonal balance. Monitoring for weight changes is crucial as it can affect the patient's overall health and well-being. Increased energy (A) is not a common side effect of lithium and can be a sign of hypomania or mania in bipolar disorder. Constipation (B) and dry mouth (D) are possible side effects of some medications, but they are not typically associated with lithium.