ATI RN Mental Custom Health Next Gen Related

Review ATI RN Mental Custom Health Next Gen related questions and content

A client with major depressive disorder is prescribed lithium carbonate. Which finding should the RN report to the healthcare provider?

  • A. Serum lithium level of 0.8 mEq/L
  • B. Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) level of 16 mg/dL
  • C. Serum sodium level of 138 mEq/L
  • D. Urine output of 800 mL in 24 hours
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) level of 16 mg/dL. This finding should be reported as it may indicate potential renal impairment, a common side effect of lithium carbonate. Elevated BUN levels can suggest decreased kidney function, which can lead to lithium toxicity.
A: A serum lithium level of 0.8 mEq/L is within the therapeutic range for lithium carbonate.
C: A serum sodium level of 138 mEq/L is within the normal range and not a concerning finding.
D: Urine output of 800 mL in 24 hours is a normal amount and not indicative of any immediate concerns related to lithium therapy.