What should the nurse teach a client about the use of lithium carbonate before an upcoming surgery?

The correct choice emphasizes the importance of managing lithium carbonate carefully around the time of surgery. Lithium, a mood stabilizer often used to treat bipolar disorder, can affect kidney function and electrolyte balance, which are particularly important during surgical procedures due to the potential for changes in fluid and sodium levels.

Discontinuing lithium 1 to 2 days before surgery allows the body to stabilize without the medication, which helps reduce the risk of complications during the procedure. Resuming lithium as soon as full oral intake is allowed is crucial for ensuring the client's mental health stability post-surgery. Immediate resumption of lithium after surgery helps maintain therapeutic levels and supports the client's psychological well-being.

This approach balances the risks associated with lithium therapy while minimizing interruptions in treatment, ensuring that the client remains stable both physically and mentally. In this context, discontinuation for a brief period minimizes the risk of lithium toxicity or adverse effects during the surgical process while enabling a smooth transition back to treatment afterwards.