The client was admitted to the medical floor. Upon arrival, the client was assessed: He is difficult to arouse but follows commands. He has a peripheral IV which is infusing normal saline at 145 mL/hr. No redness or edema at the site. Breath sounds are clear and equal bilaterally. He appears pink and well-perfused.
The client had a tonic-clonic seizure that lasted for 3 minutes and 5 seconds. The client became apneic during the seizure and the oxygen saturation dropped to 48%. The client was manually ventilated at 100% oxygen and padding was placed around the vent for safety. After the seizure, the client was turned to his left for recovery.
The physician comes to the bedside following the seizure and prescribes phenytoin. The PN administers the phenytoin as prescribed.
What are the possible toxic effects of phenytoin that the PN should closely monitor the client for after administration?
Select all that apply
Ataxia
Drowsiness
Altered blood coagulation
Anxiety
Aphasia
Vertigo
Visual disturbances
Vomiting
Correct Answer : A,B,C,F,G
Ataxia: Phenytoin can cause problems with coordination and balance, leading to ataxia. The PN should monitor the client for unsteady gait or difficulty with movements.
Drowsiness: Phenytoin can cause drowsiness or sedation. The PN should observe the client for excessive sleepiness or difficulty staying awake.
Altered blood coagulation: Phenytoin can affect blood clotting factors, potentially leading to altered blood coagulation. The PN should assess the client for any signs of bleeding or bruising.
Vertigo: Phenytoin can cause dizziness or vertigo, which is a spinning sensation. The PN should be alert for complaints of dizziness or any difficulty with balance.
Visual disturbances: Phenytoin can cause visual disturbances, such as blurred vision or double vision. The PN should monitor the client's vision and report any changes.
The following options are incorrect regarding the toxic effects of phenytoin:
- Anxiety: Anxiety is not a recognized toxic effect of phenytoin. However, it is important to assess the client for any signs of anxiety or emotional changes.
- Aphasia: Aphasia refers to a language impairment and is not typically associated with the toxic effects of phenytoin.
- Vomiting: While phenytoin can cause gastrointestinal side effects, such as nausea and vomiting, it is not directly related to its toxic effects. However, the PN should still monitor the client for any signs of nausea or vomiting.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. C-reactive protein level:
C-reactive protein (CRP) is a marker of inflammation but does not specifically identify the causative organism of an infection. While elevated CRP can suggest infection or inflammation, it doesn't provide the necessary information for treatment.
B. Serum blood glucose (BG) level:
Serum blood glucose levels are important to monitor in diabetic patients because high glucose levels can impair healing and increase the risk of infection. However, it does not directly help identify the causative organism in this situation.
C. Serum albumin:
Serum albumin reflects nutritional status and can indicate malnutrition or poor wound healing. While it may be relevant for healing, it is not the most immediate test to evaluate for infection.
D. Culture for sensitive organisms:
Given the red, swollen wound with drainage and foul odor, a wound culture is the most appropriate first step to identify the specific infectious organism. This will guide the healthcare provider in selecting the most appropriate antibiotic treatment.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Taking oral prednisone with food helps to minimize gastrointestinal side effects such as stomach irritation and upset. Food acts as a protective barrier for the stomach lining, reducing the risk of irritation caused by the medication. Additionally, taking prednisone with food can help improve its absorption and distribution in the body.
The other options mentioned are incorrect:
A- "Take on an empty stomach": This is incorrect because taking prednisone on an empty stomach can increase the risk of gastrointestinal side effects. It is generally recommended to take prednisone with food to minimize these side effects.
B- "Take before bedtime": This is incorrect as there is no specific timing requirement for taking prednisone before bedtime. The timing of prednisone administration should be based on the individual's needs and the instructions provided by the healthcare provider.
C- "Take only as needed": This is incorrect because prednisone is typically prescribed with specific dosing instructions. It is important for the client to follow the prescribed dosing schedule and not take it "as needed" unless instructed otherwise by the healthcare provider.
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