An older adult client has been taking lithium for several months. The nurse should recognize that the client's age increases susceptibility to which of these potential complications?
a. "breakthrough" episodes despite appropriate medical management
b. developing lithium toxicity
c. noncompliance with drug regime
d. sodium depletion
B
Serum lithium level must be checked at scheduled intervals throughout therapy. Older adult clients may have decreased renal function, which places them at greater risk for developing lithium toxicity.
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