The nurse is caring for a patient who was given a new medical prescription for phenytoin. What would the nurse stress in the discharge instructions regarding this medication?

"Use a cane or walker when you begin to have difficulty walking."

"Adjust the dose depending upon observed seizure activity."

"You will need to have blood levels drawn annually."

"Be sure to have regular visits to the dentist."

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is D

A. While using a cane or walker may be necessary for some patients experiencing balance issues, it is not a specific instruction related to phenytoin.

B. Phenytoin dosages should not be adjusted solely based on observed seizure activity; the dose must be managed carefully based on serum drug levels and the clinician's guidance.

C. Patients on phenytoin typically require more frequent monitoring of blood levels (every 2-3 months initially) rather than annually, as maintaining therapeutic levels is essential to avoid toxicity or ineffective seizure control.

D. Regular dental visits are crucial for patients taking phenytoin because the medication can cause gingival hyperplasia (overgrowth of gum tissue), which necessitates careful dental hygiene and regular monitoring by a dentist to prevent complications.

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Correct Answer is ["C","D","E"]

Explanation

A. Padded tongue blades are not appropriate for seizure management and are not necessary in this context.

B. Soft wrist restraints are not required in this scenario unless otherwise indicated.

C. An Ambu bag and oxygen are crucial for respiratory support, especially if the patient has compromised breathing due to spinal cord injury.

D. Wrenches should be readily available to quickly remove halo traction in case of an emergency, such as if the patient's airway needs to be accessed.

E. An oral suction tube (Yankauer) is important for managing oral secretions, which can be challenging for patients with limited mobility.

A. "I should discuss all over the counter drugs with my healthcare provider." B. "I cannot discontinue medication abruptly." C. "If I miss a dose, I can double up on the next dose." D. "I should take my medications exactly as ordered."

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A. Discussing over-the-counter drugs with the healthcare provider is essential, as they can interact with antiepileptic medications.

B. Discontinuing antiepileptic medications abruptly can lead to rebound seizures and is unsafe, so this statement is correct.

C. Doubling up on doses can lead to toxicity and adverse effects; missed doses should not be made up by doubling the next dose. This response indicates the need for further teaching.

D. Taking medications exactly as prescribed is necessary to maintain therapeutic levels and manage seizure control effectively.

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The nurse is caring for a patient who was given a new medical prescription for phenytoin. What would the nurse stress in the discharge instructions regarding this medication?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

The nurse is caring for a patient who suffered a spinal cord injury (SCI) who has had halo traction placed for spinal immobilization. What emergency equipment should the nurse have at the bedside? (SELECT ALL THAT APPLY)

Correct Answer is ["C","D","E"]

Explanation

The nurse is caring for a patient diagnosed with epilepsy who is prescribed antiepileptic medications. The nurse would identify the need for further teaching when the patient states:

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

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