Pharmacology Proctored ATI Practice Exam

What should a nurse include when providing discharge teaching for a client with a new prescription for lithium?

1. Obtain a daily weight

2. Limit fluid intake to less than 1 liter per day

3. Increase sodium intake

4. Take the medication with a large meal

The correct answer is: Obtain a daily weight

When providing discharge teaching for a client with a new prescription for lithium, it is essential to include obtaining a daily weight as part of the instructions. Monitoring weight daily helps in assessing for potential fluid retention, which is a common side effect of lithium therapy. This practice allows for early detection of any weight gain, which could be a sign of lithium toxicity. Monitoring weight can assist in adjusting the dosage of lithium to ensure the client's safety and therapeutic effectiveness of the medication. The other options are not accurate in the context of discharge teaching for a client with a new prescription for lithium. Limiting fluid intake to less than 1 liter per day is not correct advice as adequate hydration is essential for overall health and the elimination of lithium from the body. Increasing sodium intake is also not recommended because lithium reabsorption in the kidneys is inversely related to sodium intake. Taking the medication with a large meal is not necessary for lithium administration instructions, as it can be taken with or without food as tolerated by the client.