A patient with a mood disorder is admitted into Psychiatric unit. After two weeks of receiving lithium therapy, the patient became depressed. Which evaluation of this patient’s behavior by the nurse is the most appropriate ?.
A. Call the doctor immediately for patient is feeling sick with metallic taste in the mouth.
B. Check the lithium level in the blood. C.The patient will be fine give him time.
D.This is normal response for lithium therapy. Patient should be monitored closely for suicidal behavior. The most accurate answer is D.
Rationale: Side effects of lithium include feeling sick,diarrhea, metallic taste in the mouth, dry mouth etc. The doctor should order regular laboratory test to check lithium level. Don’t take lithium if you are under the age of twelve years, have severe kidney disease or heart disease. Always follow doctor orders.
Nurses You Move Me 