Question

a resident of a long - term care facility is taking lithium carbonate to treat bipolar disorder. which instruction should the nurse provide to this clients caregivers?

a encourage high energy fluid intake by providing sports drinks or sodas
b have the client chew the pill if it is difficult to swallow.
c report symptoms of hypothyroidism such as fatigue and constipation.
d offer the morning dose of the medicine before breakfast.

Explanation:

• Option A: Sports drinks/sodas have high sugar and caffeine, not ideal for lithium - treated patients (need balanced fluids, not high - energy ones).
• Option B: Lithium carbonate pills should not be chewed; they are usually swallowed whole.
• Option C: Lithium therapy can cause hypothyroidism. Fatigue and constipation are symptoms of hypothyroidism, so reporting these is correct.
• Option D: Lithium carbonate is often taken with food to reduce gastric irritation, not before breakfast on an empty stomach.

Answer:

C. Report symptoms of hypothyroidism such as fatigue and constipation.