A nurse is discussing lithium levels with another nurse. As they review the laboratory findings, they discover a lithium level of 0.6 mEq/L. Which statement made by one of the nurses best demonstrates an understanding of lithium levels?
a. The patient's plasma level is below the toxic level of 3 mEq/L and is considered therapeutic.
b. The patient's plasma level exceeds 0.5 mEq/L and is therefore toxic.
c. The patient's plasma level is between 0.4 and 1 mEq/L and is considered therapeutic.
d. The patient's plasma level is below the 2.5 mEq/L level that would indicate toxicity.
ANS: C
For maintenance therapy, lithium levels should range from 0.4 to 1 mEq/L.
Lithium toxicity is defined as a level above 1.5 mEq/L.
A lithium level of 0.5 mEq/L is considered therapeutic.
Lithium toxicity is defined as a level above 1.5 mEq/L.
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