A patient receiving lithium reports repeated vomiting, coarse hand tremors, unsteady walking, and slurred speech. Which nursing action is most appropriate?
Correct answer: B. Withhold lithium and notify the prescriber
- A. Administer the scheduled lithium dose
- B. Withhold lithium and notify the prescriber
- C. Give an extra dose with food
- D. Restrict oral fluids until symptoms settle
Explanation
Coarse tremor, gastrointestinal symptoms, ataxia, and slurred speech are warning signs of lithium toxicity. The nurse should withhold further lithium, assess the patient, and arrange urgent serum testing and medical review.
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About Psychiatric Emergencies
Psychiatric emergencies include suicidal behavior, homicide risk, severe agitation, panic, acute psychosis, delirium, overdose, and withdrawal states. Students examine rapid risk assessment, crisis intervention, de-escalation, environmental safety, emergency medication, observation levels, and the immediate priorities that differ from routine psychiatric nursing care.
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