A patient diagnosed with bipolar disorder is in the maintenance phase of treatment. The patient asks, "Do I have to keep taking this lithium even though my mood is stable now?" Select the nurse's appropriate response
a. "You will be able to stop the medication in about 1 month."
b. "Taking the medication every day helps reduce the risk of a relapse."
c. "Usually patients take medication for approximately 6 months after discharge."
d. "It's unusual that the health care provider hasn't already stopped your medication."
ANS: B
Patients diagnosed with bipolar disorder may be maintained on lithium indefinitely to prevent recurrences. Helping the patient understand this need will promote medication compliance.
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