A client began taking lithium carbonate (Lithobid) for the treatment of bipolar disorder approximately 1 month ago. The client asks if it is normal to have gained 12 pounds in this time frame. Which is the appropriate nursing response?
1. "That's strange. Weight loss is the typical pattern."
2. "What have you been eating? Weight gain is not usually associated with lithium."
3. "Weight gain is a common, but troubling, side effect."
4. "Weight gain only occurs during the first month of treatment with this drug."
3
Rationale: The nurse should explain to the client that weight gain is a common side effect of lithium carbonate. The nurse should educate the client on the importance of medication adherence and discuss concerns with the prescribing physician if the client does not wish to continue taking the medication.
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