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 can safely take this medication if you become pregnant."
"You can skip a dose of this medication if you are nauseated."
"You should expect to have blood work every 6 months while taking this medication."
"You might experience swollen gums while taking this medication."
The Correct Answer is D
A. Incorrect. Phenytoin is known to be a teratogenic medication, meaning it can cause birth defects. It is important for females of childbearing age to use effective contraception while taking phenytoin and to discuss pregnancy plans with their healthcare provider.
B. Incorrect. Skipping a dose of phenytoin can lead to changes in blood levels of the medication and may result in decreased seizure control. Nausea should be managed with the guidance of the healthcare provider.
C. Incorrect. Phenytoin can require regular monitoring of blood levels, but the frequency of blood work may vary based on the client's individual needs. Blood work is usually done more frequently than every 6 months, especially when starting or adjusting the medication.
D. Correct. Phenytoin can cause gingival hyperplasia, which leads to swollen and overgrown gums. This is a common side effect that clients should be informed about.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Loose stools are not a typical finding related to external radiation for throat cancer.
B. Correct. Loss of taste (dysgeusia. is a common side effect of radiation therapy, particularly in the treatment area?
C. Bladder infection is not a typical finding related to external radiation for throat cancer.
D. Increased appetite is not a common finding related to radiation therapy; it's more commonly associated with certain medications or hormonal changes.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) is a severe and potentially life-threatening skin reaction that can occur as a rare but serious side effect of allopurinol. The initial symptom often presents as a skin rash, which can progress rapidly and involve other mucous membranes such as the mouth and eyes. Fever is commonly associated with SJS.
Diplopia (double vision) is not a typical symptom of SJS. It refers to seeing two images instead of one and can be caused by various factors unrelated to allopurinol or SJS.
Tinnitus with ear pain is not a characteristic symptom of SJS. It usually relates to issues with the auditory system, such as damage to the inner ear or other underlying conditions.
Hyperreflexia (exaggerated reflexes) is not directly associated with SJS. It typically refers to an abnormal increase in the body's reflex responses and can be caused by conditions affecting the central nervous system or spinal cord.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today