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 should expect to have blood work every 6 months while taking this medication."
"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
Phenytoin is known to cause gingival hyperplasia, which is characterized by swollen and enlarged gums. This side effect is more common in long-term use and may require dental care and regular oral hygiene practices.
Phenytoin is known to be associated with an increased risk of birth defects in babies born to women taking the medication during pregnancy. It is important for women of childbearing age to discuss the risks and benefits of phenytoin with their healthcare provider and use effective contraception to avoid pregnancy while taking the medication.
Phenytoin can affect liver function, so regular monitoring of liver enzymes and blood levels of the medication is necessary. The frequency of blood work may vary depending on the individual's specific situation, so it is important to follow the healthcare provider's instructions.
It is not advisable to skip a dose of phenytoin without consulting a healthcare provider. Abruptly stopping or missing doses of antiepileptic medications can lead to breakthrough seizures or other complications. Any changes in the medication regimen should be discussed with the healthcare provider.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A- Ask the family if they want to participate in postmortem care Asking the family if they want to participate in post-mortem care is an important step to involve them in the process and respect their wishes. Some families may prefer to have healthcare professionals handle the post-mortem care, while others may want to participate in certain aspects. It is crucial to communicate and collaborate with the family to ensure their preferences are respected. Choice B- Lie the head of the client's bed flat. This response is not appropriate. Elevate the head of the bed as soon as possible after death to prevent discoloration of the face. Choice C- Place medical equipment to the side of the client's bed. Is not directly related to the preparation for a post-mortem family viewing. However, it is important to ensure a respectful and organized environment during the viewing, so any unnecessary medical equipment or supplies should be removed from the immediate vicinity of the client's bed. Choice D-Remove the client's dentures to close their mouth. Leave dentures in the mouth to maintain facial shape.The mouth can be gently closed without removing dentures, unless there are specific cultural or family preferences regarding the dentures.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Orthostatic hypotension, which is a sudden drop in blood pressure upon standing, can be a side effect of enalapril and may lead to syncope. Instructing the client to rise slowly from a sitting to a standing position helps minimize the risk of a sudden drop in blood pressure and decreases the chances of syncope occurring.
Decreasing fluid intake is not likely to be the cause of syncope related to enalapril. It is important for clients to maintain adequate hydration, especially if they are experiencing side effects such as orthostatic hypotension.
While a low pulse rate may indicate bradycardia, it is not the primary concern in this situation. Orthostatic hypotension leading to syncope is the main issue, and the client should be instructed to rise slowly to prevent it.
While enalapril is an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor that can increase potassium levels in the blood, it is not directly related to syncope. Dietary changes should be made under the guidance of a healthcare provider based on individual needs and blood test results.
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