A nurse is participating in the care of a 4-year-old child as part of the interdisciplinary team. Which of the following observations should the nurse report to the physical therapist?

A) I have a difficult time getting my child to eat green vegetables: While it’s common for preschoolers to be selective about food, especially vegetables, this issue does not represent an immediate concern for the child’s health or development. This issue can often be addressed with strategies to encourage healthy eating, but it is not as urgent as other concerns.

B) My child continually asks me the same questions: Repetitive questioning is a normal part of preschool development, as children at this age are curious and often seek reassurance. It reflects their cognitive development as they try to understand the world around them. While it may be tiring for the guardian, it is not an immediate concern.

C) My child still wets the bed at least two times per week: Bedwetting (enuresis) is common among preschool-aged children, and many children do not gain full bladder control until after age 5. This issue is typically addressed if it continues past the age of 5, but it is not a priority at this time.

D) I have noticed that my child is withdrawn since we switched day care providers: This statement indicates a potential emotional or behavioral issue that requires immediate attention. Changes in behavior, such as withdrawal, can be a sign of stress, anxiety, or difficulty adjusting to a new environment. The nurse should prioritize this concern, as it may indicate that the child is having difficulty coping with the transition and may need additional support or evaluation. Addressing emotional well-being is a priority for the nurse.

A) "You should expect to have blood work every 6 months while taking this medication.": While it is important for clients on phenytoin to have regular blood work, especially to monitor drug levels and assess for potential side effects (e.g., liver function, complete blood count), the frequency of blood work is typically more frequent than every 6 months. Blood work is often performed at least every 3-6 months, or more frequently if there are concerns about phenytoin levels or side effects. Therefore, this statement is not accurate.

B) "You can safely take this medication if you become pregnant.": Phenytoin is classified as a Category D medication in pregnancy, meaning it has been shown to cause potential harm to the fetus. It is not considered safe during pregnancy, and women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant should discuss alternative medications with their healthcare provider.

C) "You might experience swollen gums while taking this medication.": Gingival hyperplasia (swelling of the gums) is a common side effect of phenytoin. Clients taking this medication should be aware of this potential side effect and should be instructed on proper oral hygiene and regular dental checkups to help minimize this risk. This statement is accurate and should be included in the teaching.

D) "You can skip a dose of this medication if you are nauseated.": It is important not to skip doses of phenytoin, as maintaining therapeutic levels of the drug is crucial for its effectiveness in preventing seizures. If a client experiences nausea or difficulty taking the medication, they should contact their healthcare provider for guidance rather than skipping doses. Skipping doses could lead to breakthrough seizures.