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."
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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Timolol is a beta-blocker that can be absorbed systemically, leading to side effects such as bradycardia and hypotension, which require monitoring.
B. Tachycardia and dry cough are not common side effects of timolol; dry cough is more associated with ACE inhibitors.
C. Scleral injection and tearing are not common side effects and are not expected with timolol use.
D. Changes in eye pigmentation are more commonly seen with prostaglandin analogs, not with beta-blockers like timolol.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. 28 units only accounts for the NPH insulin dosage and does not include the regular insulin dosage.
B. Adding 14 units of regular insulin and 28 units of NPH insulin results in a total of 42 units, the correct dose to prepare in the syringe.
C. 14 units only accounts for the regular insulin dosage and does not include the NPH insulin dosage.
D. 32 units is not the correct total dose; it underestimates the combined dosage.
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