The nurse is caring for a client who is taking lithium for the treatment of bipolar disorder. The client’s most recent laboratory findings reveal a serum lithium level of 1.4 mEq/L. What assessment findings should the nurse attribute to the client’s lithium level? Group of answer choices The nurse observes personality changes, and the client is disoriented to time. Lung auscultation reveals rales, and the client is short of breath on exertion. The client is lethargic and weak. The client has decreased bowel sounds and has had no bowel movement for 3 days.

The nurse is caring for a client who is taking lithium for the treatment of bipolar disorder. The client's most recent laboratory findings reveal a serum lithium level of 1.4 mEq/L. What assessment findings should the nurse attribute to the client's lithium level?
Group of answer choices
The nurse observes personality changes, and the client is disoriented to time.
Lung auscultation reveals rales, and the client is short of breath on exertion.
The client is lethargic and weak.
The client has decreased bowel sounds and has had no bowel movement for 3 days.

Answer

• The client is lethargic and weak.
  Explanation:
  High levels of lithium in the body is described as lithium toxicity. Higher levels of lithium will result to numerous and severe symptoms. Moderate lithium toxicity causes tremors, drowsiness, lack of coordination, diarrhea, nausea and muscle weakness. When lithium toxicity is severe, symptoms include blurred vision, muscle pain, low blood pressure, confusion, and moderate confusion. Less mental capacity, and lack of motivation (lethargy) are common symptoms.