Lithium NCLEX Question: Lithium & Pregnancy
3,358 views · Published 27 August 2015 · 4:38 · Indexed 20 September 2026
Channel: EmpoweRN · 2015 · Education
This video is about Lithium Q 3 QUESTION #3 A client who has been taking lithium medication for the past few years, recently got pregnant, and she is very concerned about the effects of the medication on her unborn child. Which of the following statements is true that would address the client’s concern? A. Lithium does not cross the placental barrier and poses no risk for the fetus B. Pregnant women with a diagnosis of bipolar disorder should not take lithium medication C. Oral contraceptive and lithium medication may result to a false-positive pregnancy test. D. Lithium should be avoided during the latter part of the first trimester if possible. Option A is incorrect because studies have shown that Lithium crosses the placental barrier and poses a risk for developing birth defects to a fetus. Option B is incorrect because it can help control the mother’s manic symptoms with little risk to the fetus in the second and third trimester. Option C is also incorrect because this is only true with carbamazepine (Tegretol). Option D –-to minimize any risks to the fetus, lithium should be avoided in the latter part of the first trimester if possible. The correct answer is D.
