ATI Mental Health Questions Related

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What assessment findings would indicate lithium toxicity in a patient hospitalized for an acute manic episode?

  • A. Shortness of breath, gastrointestinal distress, chronic cough
  • B. Ataxia, severe hypotension, large volume of dilute urine
  • C. Gastrointestinal distress, thirst, nystagmus
  • D. Electroencephalographic changes, chest pain, dizziness
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In a patient suspected of lithium toxicity, the presence of ataxia, severe hypotension, and a large volume of dilute urine are key assessment findings. Ataxia is a sign of central nervous system involvement, severe hypotension indicates cardiovascular effects, and a large volume of dilute urine suggests renal impairment, all of which are commonly seen in severe lithium toxicity. Options A, C, and D do not align with typical signs of lithium toxicity.