A nurse is reviewing laboratory values for a client who has systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Which of the following values should give the nurse the best indication of the client's renal function?

Rationale for Choice A:
Phenytoin is an anticonvulsant medication used to control seizures. It is typically a long-term medication, and abruptly stopping it can lead to breakthrough seizures or worsen existing seizures.
This statement indicates that the client may not understand the importance of taking phenytoin consistently and the potential consequences of discontinuing it without consulting their doctor.

Rationale for Choice B:
Making an appointment with a dentist is important for all individuals, including those with seizure disorders. There is no specific concern related to phenytoin and dental care that would necessitate further teaching in this context.

Rationale for Choice C:
It is important for clients to understand that switching brands of phenytoin might affect its effectiveness due to slight variations in formulation. However, simply stating awareness of this fact does not necessarily indicate a need for further teaching, as the nurse can assess the client's understanding through further questioning.

Rationale for Choice D:
Notifying a doctor before taking any new medications is crucial for individuals with seizures, as some medications can interact with phenytoin and increase the risk of seizures. This statement demonstrates the client's understanding of an important safety precaution.
Therefore, Choice A is the only statement that suggests a potential lack of understanding about the long-term nature of phenytoin treatment and the dangers of discontinuing it without medical supervision. This highlights the need for further education to ensure the client's safety and adherence to the prescribed medication regimen.

Choice A rationale:
The length of time the mother has been caring for the baby is not directly relevant to the risk of HIV transmission through breastfeeding. While a longer duration of breastfeeding may increase overall exposure, the primary concern is whether breastfeeding is occurring at all, as it presents a significant transmission route.

Choice B rationale:
Kissing does not typically transmit HIV, as the virus does not survive well outside the body. While there is a very low theoretical risk of transmission if both individuals have open sores or bleeding gums, it's not a primary concern in this scenario.

Choice C rationale:
The timing of the baby's last antibiotic treatment is not directly relevant to the risk of HIV transmission from breastfeeding. Antibiotics do not prevent or treat HIV infection, and their use would not impact the assessment of breastfeeding-related risks.

Choice D rationale:
Breastfeeding is a significant route of HIV transmission from mother to child. If the baby is breastfeeding, it's crucial for the nurse to determine the mother's viral load and CD4 count, assess the baby's HIV status, and provide appropriate counseling and interventions to reduce the risk of transmission. This information is essential for guiding decisions about infant feeding and potential prophylactic measures to protect the baby's health.