A client with bipolar disorder has been taking lithium, and today his serum blood level is 2.0 mEq/L. What effects would the nurse expect to see?

Choice A reason: The therapeutic range for lithium is 0.6–1.2 mEq/L. A level of 2.0 mEq/L indicates toxicity, not therapeutic safety. Choice B reason: Fever, muscle rigidity, and disorientation are more consistent with neuroleptic malignant syndrome, not lithium toxicity. Choice C reason: Lithium toxicity commonly presents with gastrointestinal symptoms (nausea, diarrhea) and neurological changes (confusion, tremors). At 2.0 mEq/L, these are expected findings. Choice D reason: Constipation and postural hypotension are not typical signs of lithium toxicity. They may occur with other medications but are not the primary effects of elevated lithium levels.