Mood Stabiliser

Question 1

What does mood stabilisers treat?

Answer 1

Bipolar disorder (regulates mood swings such as depression and mania)

Question 2

Mood stabiliser meds

Answer 2

Lithium Carbonate (helps regulate mood swings such as depression and mania)

Question 3

Adverse effects of Lithium Carbonate

Answer 3

Nausea
thirst
dry mouth
weight gain

Question 4

Toxicity symptoms of Lithium Carbonate

Answer 4

Dehydration (increased levels of Lithium in blood)
Hyponatraemia
Kidney failure - Decreased GRF (glomerular filtration rate) due lithium build up in blood

Question 5

Lithium Carbonate contradictions

Answer 5

Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Renal disease
Dehydrated (excessive vomiting and diarrhoea) pts
On diuretics
Hyponatraemic 

Avoid taking NSAIDs (it can decrease renal blood flow and increase risk of toxicity)

Question 6

Nursing considerations for Lithium Carbonate

Answer 6

Educate S&S of toxicity
Medication adherence
serum lithium levels should be checked 1-2 months
DO NOT operate heavy machinery or drive
Drink plenty of water for dehydration
DO NOT start low salt diet (sudden decrease in salt can increase lithium levels)