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.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Swelling of the lips
The nurse should reinforce with the client that the epinephrine auto-injector can help treat swelling of the lips. Epinephrine is a medication commonly used to treat severe allergic reactions, also known as anaphylaxis. Swelling of the lips is one of the hallmark manifestations of an allergic reaction.
Epinephrine acts quickly to reverse the allergic response by constricting blood vessels, relaxing smooth muscles, and reducing swelling and inflammation.
Nausea in (option A) is incorrect: Nausea can have various causes, and epinephrine is not specifically indicated for treating this symptom.
Hyperglycemia in (option B) is incorrect: Epinephrine can potentially increase blood glucose levels, so it is not used to treat hyperglycemia.
Hand tremors in (option C) is incorrect: Epinephrine can cause tremors as a side effect, so it is not used to treat hand tremors.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Potassium is an essential electrolyte that plays a crucial role in various bodily functions. However, for individuals with an electrolyte imbalance, it is often necessary to limit their potassium intake. Among the options provided, baked chicken breast is the lowest in potassium. Cantaloupe is relatively high in potassium. A cup of diced cantaloupe contains about 430 mg of potassium.
Sweet potatoes are known for their high potassium content. A medium-sized sweet potato with skin contains about 542 mg of potassium.
Orange juice also contains a moderate amount of potassium. An 8-ounce serving of orange juice typically contains around 450 mg of potassium.
Chicken breast is naturally low in potassium compared to fruits and vegetables. It contains about 260 mg of potassium per 4-ounce serving.
Therefore, among the given options, the baked chicken breast is the lowest in potassium and would be the most suitable choice for a client with an electrolyte imbalance requiring a low-potassium diet.
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