Lithium Level on the NCLEX
Therapeutic range, toxicity, timing of draw.
Lithium has a narrow therapeutic window. Level guides dosing.
Therapeutic
0.6-1.2 mEq/L maintenance. 0.8-1.2 acute mania. >1.5 toxic.
When draw
12 hours after last dose. Steady state after 5-7 days on a dose.
Toxicity
Tremor (coarse), GI symptoms, confusion, ataxia. Severe: seizures, coma, death.
Acute toxicity treatment
Hold lithium. Hydrate. Dialysis if severe.
Frequently asked
Mild tremor at therapeutic level?
Common. Fine hand tremor expected. Coarse tremor = toxicity.
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