A nurse is reinforcing teaching a client who has a new prescription for phenytoin. The nurse should instruct the client to monitor and report which of the following adverse effects of this medication?
Diarrhea
Wrist pain
Skin rash
Metallic taste
The Correct Answer is C
A. Diarrhea:
Diarrhea is not a common side effect of phenytoin. While gastrointestinal disturbances such as nausea, vomiting, and constipation may occur, diarrhea is less common. Therefore, it is not a primary adverse effect that the nurse should instruct the client to monitor and report.
B. Wrist pain:
Wrist pain is not a common side effect of phenytoin. Side effects related to musculoskeletal issues such as joint pain, muscle weakness, or muscle twitching can occur, but wrist pain specifically is not commonly associated with phenytoin use. Therefore, it is not a primary adverse effect that the nurse should instruct the client to monitor and report.
C. Skin rash:
Skin rash is a potential adverse effect of phenytoin that should be monitored and reported. Phenytoin can cause various skin reactions, including a mild rash or more severe reactions such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis. Therefore, the nurse should instruct the client to promptly report any signs of skin rash or other skin changes.
D. Metallic taste:
Metallic taste is a common side effect of phenytoin. While it is not usually a serious adverse effect, it can be bothersome for some individuals. Therefore, the nurse should instruct the client to monitor for this side effect and report it if it occurs persistently or becomes bothersome.

Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Lie flat:
This option involves instructing the patient to lie flat on their back without elevating their head. Lying flat helps to maintain consistent pressure in the spinal canal, reducing the likelihood of CSF leakage from the puncture site. This position is commonly recommended after a lumbar puncture to prevent or minimize the occurrence of post-lumbar puncture headaches (PLPH).
B. Lie on left side:
This option involves instructing the patient to lie on their left side. While lying on the left side may provide some relief by reducing pressure on the lumbar puncture site, it is not typically recommended immediately after the procedure to prevent PLPH. Lying flat is generally preferred to minimize changes in CSF pressure and reduce the risk of headache.
C. Stay in semi-Fowler position:
The semi-Fowler position involves elevating the head of the bed at a 30-45 degree angle. This position is not typically recommended immediately after a lumbar puncture because it may increase CSF leakage and pressure changes, potentially exacerbating the risk of developing a headache.
D. Ambulate in the room with assistance:
Ambulating shortly after a lumbar puncture is not typically recommended as it may increase the risk of developing a headache. Movement and changes in posture can exacerbate CSF leakage and pressure changes at the puncture site, leading to the development of post-lumbar puncture headaches.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Increased blinking
Increased blinking is not a typical manifestation of bradykinesia. In fact, individuals with Parkinson's disease may experience reduced blinking (hypokinesia of blinking) rather than increased blinking.
B. States of euphoria
Euphoria is not typically associated with bradykinesia. Instead, individuals with Parkinson's disease may experience a range of mood changes, including depression, anxiety, or apathy, but euphoria is not a common finding.
C. Slurred speech
This is the correct answer. Slurred speech, or dysarthria, can occur in individuals with Parkinson's disease as a result of bradykinesia affecting the muscles involved in speech production. Bradykinesia can cause a reduction in the speed and coordination of movements necessary for clear speech, resulting in slurred or mumbled speech patterns.
D. Decreased respiratory rate
Decreased respiratory rate is not typically associated with bradykinesia. Bradykinesia primarily affects voluntary movements rather than involuntary processes such as respiration. While respiratory muscle weakness can occur in advanced stages of Parkinson's disease, it is not directly related to bradykinesia.

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