The nurse would evaluate that patient education regarding lithium therapy for an indi-vidual with bipolar disorder as effective if the patient states:
a. "I can stop my lithium when I feel better."
b. "I can continue with my diuretic and cardiac medications."
c. "I will probably need to take the lithium for the rest of my life."
d. "I will taper my lithium when a therapeutic serum level is achieved."
ANS: C
Most patients with bipolar disorder require long-term maintenance on lithium or other anti-manic medication. Patients should never stop medication without consulting the physician. When a therapeutic level is achieved, the patient will continue on maintenance doses of lith-ium. Diuretics are contraindicated for the patient on lithium.
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