The nurse is reviewing the lab results of a patient taking lithium for schizoaffective disorder. The lab results show that the blood lithium value is 1.7 mcg/L.

The nurse is reviewing the lab results of a patient taking lithium for schizoaffective disorder. The lab results show that the blood lithium value is 1.7 mcg/L. What would the nurse take as the priority action?

1. Induce vomiting
2. Hold the next dose of Lithium
3. Administer an anti-emetic
4. Give the next dose of Lithium

Ans:  2. Hold the next dose of Lithium
Correct – Lithium’s therapeutic range is 0.5-1.5mcg/L, and begins toxicity at 1.5mcg/L