You are preparing to discharge a 48 year old male patient re

You are preparing to discharge a 48 year old male patient recently admitted and diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder. Your patient was started on Lithium carbonate and is currently at a therapeutic level. In preparation for discharge, your patient will require education in order to be sent home on Lithium carbonate. What education would you provide to this patient? What laboratory values are important to assess with this patient and why?

Solution

Education to be imparted to the patient:

1. The patient and the family members are advised to be aware of any heart-related ailment. The drug is known to reveal an existing heart disorder, Brugada syndrome. Any attack of Brugada may prove fatal.

2. Lithium carbonate may induce allergy.

3. Lithium carbonate has several side effects like dizziness, blurred vision, and hand tremors. If the symptoms increases consult the physician.and do not drive under these conditions.

4. Consult the doctor in case of heavy sweating or diarrhea

5. Limit alcohol intake.

6. Inform doctor about your medication, prior to going for surgery.

Laboratory values important to access:

1. Family history of the heart ailments to assess the risk of Brugada syndrome

2. Allergy profile of the patient.