A nurse is performing discharge teaching for a client who has seizures and a new prescription for phenytoin. Which of the following statements by the client indicates a need for further teaching?
"I'll be glad when I can stop taking this medicine."
"I have made an appointment to see my dentist next week."
"I will notify my doctor before taking any other medications."
"I know that I cannot switch brands of this medication."
The Correct Answer is A
Phenytoin is an anticonvulsant medication that is used to prevent and treat seizures. It works by stabilizing the electrical activity of the brain and reducing the spread of abnormal impulses. Phenytoin is usually taken for life or until the seizures are controlled by other means, such as surgery or diet. The client should not stop taking phenytoin without consulting their doctor, as this can cause withdrawal symptoms or increase the risk of seizures.
The other options are correct and indicate that the client understands the discharge teaching because:
- "I have made an appointment to see my dentist next week." This statement is correct because phenytoin can cause gingival hyperplasia, which is an overgrowth of gum tissue that can lead to bleeding, infection, or difficulty chewing. The client should practice good oral hygiene and see their dentist regularly to prevent or treat this condition.
- "I will notify my doctor before taking any other medications." This statement is correct because phenytoin can interact with many other medications, such as antibiotics, anticoagulants, oral contraceptives, or antacids. These interactions can affect the blood levels and effectiveness of phenytoin or the other medications, causing adverse effects or reduced seizure control. The client should inform their doctor of any other medications they are taking or planning to take, including over-the-counter, herbal, or dietary supplements.
- "I know that I cannot switch brands of this medication." This statement is correct because different brands of phenytoin may have different formulations or bioavailability, which can affect the absorption and metabolism of the drug. Switching brands can cause changes in the blood levels and effectiveness of phenytoin, leading to toxicity or reduced seizure control. The client should always use the same brand of phenytoin and check with their pharmacist if they notice any changes in the appearance or labeling of their medication.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A: Vertigo is a common finding in clients with essential hypertension due to changes in blood flow and possible impacts on the inner ear, which can affect balance.
B: Blurred vision, while it can be associated with hypertension, is not as directly related to essential hypertension as vertigo is. It is more commonly a sign of complications from prolonged uncontrolled hypertension.
C: Dyspnea or difficulty breathing is not typically a direct symptom of essential hypertension, though it can be a symptom of complications such as heart failure, which can be a result of long-standing, uncontrolled hypertension.
D: Uremia, which is an elevated level of waste products in the blood, is not a symptom of essential hypertension but rather a sign of kidney failure, which can be a secondary complication of chronic hypertension. Essential hypertension itself does not directly cause uremia.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
An exercise stress test is a diagnostic procedure that measures the heart's response to physical activity. The client is instructed to walk on a treadmill or pedal a stationary bike while their heart rate, blood pressure, and electrocardiogram are monitored. The test can help detect coronary artery disease, arrhythmias, or other cardiac problems.
The client should follow certain guidelines before the test, such as:
- Avoiding caffeine, nicotine, alcohol, and stimulants for at least 4 hours before the test, as they can affect the heart rate and blood pressure.
- Fasting for at least 2 hours before the test, as eating can affect the blood flow to the heart.
- Getting adequate rest and sleep the night before the test, as fatigue can affect the performance and results of the test.
- Wearing comfortable clothing and shoes that are suitable for exercise.
- Informing the provider of any medications they are taking, as some medications may need to be withheld or adjusted before the test, such as beta blockers, calcium channel blockers, nitrates, or antiarrhythmics. These medications can affect the heart rate and blood pressure and interfere with the interpretation of the test results.
Therefore, the comment made by the client that indicates a need for further teaching is "I'll take my heart medications the morning of my test." The client should consult with their provider about whether they should take their heart medications or not before the test. The other comments made by the client are appropriate and indicate that they understand the pre-test instructions.
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