A man is prescribed lithium to treat bipolar disorder. The nurse is most concerned about lithium toxicity when he notices which of these assessment findings?

A man is prescribed lithium to treat bipolar disorder. The nurse is most concerned about lithium toxicity when he notices which of these assessment findings?

1. The patient states he had a manic episode a week ago
2. The patient states he has been having diarrhea every day
3. The patient has a rashy pruritis on his arms and legs
4. The patient presents as severely depressed
5. The patient’s lithium level is 1.3 mcg/L

Ans: 2. The patient states he has been having diarrhea every day
Correct – Persistent diarrhea can lead to dehydration, which can increase the risk of lithium toxicity.