An adult client who is admitted to the mental health unit for treatment of bipolar disorder has a slightly slurred speech pattern and an unsteady gait. Which assessment finding is most important for the nurse to report to the healthcare provider? Reference Range Blood alcohol level [Reference Range: 0 to 10.9 mmol/L (0% to 0.05%)] Lithium [Reference Range: 0.8 to 1.2 mEq/L or 0.8 to 1.2 mmol/L]

A. Blood alcohol level of 0.09% (90 mmol/L): Although an elevated blood alcohol level could contribute to slurred speech and unsteady gait, the client's clinical presentation is more consistent with lithium toxicity rather than alcohol intoxication. However, it's important to assess for recent alcohol consumption and potential interactions with medications. B. Six hours of sleep in the past three days: Sleep disturbances are common in bipolar disorder, but in this scenario, the more concerning issue is the potential lithium toxicity, as indicated by the client's symptoms. C. Serum lithium level of 1.6 mEq/L (1.6 mmol/L): Correct! A serum lithium level above the therapeutic range (greater than 1.2 mEq/L) can lead to adverse effects such as slurred speech, ataxia, and tremors. This finding indicates lithium toxicity and requires immediate intervention. D. Weight loss of 10 pounds (4.5 kg) in past month: Weight changes can be a concern in bipolar disorder, but in this case, the symptoms are more suggestive of lithium toxicity rather than related to weight loss