Moderate

A patient taking sodium valproate for bipolar disorder reports right upper abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, and yellowing of the eyes. Which nursing action is most appropriate?

Correct answer: B. Withhold the medicine and notify the prescriber promptly

  • A. Give the medicine with fruit juice and continue observation
  • B. Withhold the medicine and notify the prescriber promptly
  • C. Encourage strenuous activity to improve liver circulation
  • D. Reassure the patient that these effects indicate therapeutic response

Explanation

Abdominal pain, vomiting, and jaundice may indicate serious hepatotoxicity from valproate. The dose should be withheld according to urgent clinical guidance, and liver function and other investigations are required. Valproate can also cause pancreatitis and has important pregnancy-related risks, so unexplained abdominal symptoms require prompt review.

Submitted by a TestUstad contributor and published by the TestUstad editorial teamLast updated
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About Psychopharmacology

Psychopharmacology covers the actions, uses, adverse effects, and nursing responsibilities associated with antipsychotics, antidepressants, mood stabilizers, anxiolytics, sedatives, and stimulants. It includes extrapyramidal symptoms, tardive dyskinesia, neuroleptic malignant syndrome, serotonin syndrome, lithium toxicity, medication adherence, and monitoring of therapeutic response.

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