Bipolar disorder

A female (35 years old) with bipolar disorder has been stable for the past 6 months on a dose of lithium 600 mg bid. She comes in for an office visit and states that she is planning a 3-month camping trip to a remote location in the Southwest. She wants to be sure she has sufficient supply of medication because she will not have access to healthcare facilities.

What concerns might there be regarding this trip?

What nutritional advice would you want to give this client?

What signs and symptoms of adverse effects should the client watch for and be prepared to address?

What other teaching should be included, for example foods to avoid, daily water intake etc.?