A nurse is reinforcing teaching with a female client who is taking phenytoin. Which of the following statements should the nurse include in the teaching?
"You should expect to have blood work every 6 months while taking this medication."
*You can safely take this medication if you become pregnant."
"You might experience swollen gums while taking this medication."
"You can skip a dose of this medication if you are nauseated."
The Correct Answer is C
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.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A) Assists the client to the bathroom every 2 hr: This action is appropriate as regular assistance with toileting can help prevent falls by ensuring the client is not trying to get up unassisted when they need to use the bathroom. Assisting every 2 hours is reasonable to minimize the risk of falls, especially in clients who are at risk.
B) Clears furniture from the path leading to the bathroom: This action is correct as it reduces environmental hazards that could contribute to a fall. Ensuring that the path to the bathroom is free from obstacles is a key safety measure for clients at risk for falls.
C) Raises all four side-rails on the client's bed: This is an action the nurse should intervene on. Raising all four side rails is considered a restraint in many settings and could increase the risk of injury if the client tries to climb over or becomes entangled. It can also contribute to a feeling of entrapment or confusion. Side rails should only be used according to specific protocols and when necessary for safety, not as a blanket solution for fall prevention.
D) Locks the wheels on the client's bed: Locking the wheels on the bed is an appropriate safety measure. Ensuring the bed is stationary when the client is in it reduces the risk of accidental movement and potential falls.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A) Increase in concentration: Chlorpromazine is an antipsychotic medication used to manage symptoms of schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders. While it may have some effects on cognition, an increase in concentration is not the primary therapeutic effect of chlorpromazine.
B) Decrease in delusions: Chlorpromazine is effective in reducing symptoms of psychosis, such as delusions and hallucinations, which are common in conditions like schizophrenia. A decrease in delusions is a direct indicator that the medication is having its intended therapeutic effect.
C) Increase in alertness: Chlorpromazine can cause sedation and drowsiness as side effects, particularly during the initial stages of treatment. An increase in alertness would not be a typical therapeutic outcome, and it may even suggest a side effect like overstimulation or anxiety rather than the intended effect.
D) Decrease in anxiety: While chlorpromazine may have some calming effects, it is primarily used to treat symptoms of psychosis, not anxiety disorders. A decrease in anxiety is not the main therapeutic effect of chlorpromazine. Other medications, such as benzodiazepines, are typically used for anxiety management.
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