The nurse is preparing discharge instructions for a patient with a history of diabetes who has just been diagnosed with seizure disorder. The patient has been prescribed hydantoin therapy. What will the patient most likely experience?

A. Increased blinking

Increased blinking is not a typical manifestation of bradykinesia. In fact, individuals with Parkinson's disease may experience reduced blinking (hypokinesia of blinking) rather than increased blinking.

B. States of euphoria

Euphoria is not typically associated with bradykinesia. Instead, individuals with Parkinson's disease may experience a range of mood changes, including depression, anxiety, or apathy, but euphoria is not a common finding.

C. Slurred speech

This is the correct answer. Slurred speech, or dysarthria, can occur in individuals with Parkinson's disease as a result of bradykinesia affecting the muscles involved in speech production. Bradykinesia can cause a reduction in the speed and coordination of movements necessary for clear speech, resulting in slurred or mumbled speech patterns.

D. Decreased respiratory rate

Decreased respiratory rate is not typically associated with bradykinesia. Bradykinesia primarily affects voluntary movements rather than involuntary processes such as respiration. While respiratory muscle weakness can occur in advanced stages of Parkinson's disease, it is not directly related to bradykinesia.

A. Hyperglycemia:

Hyperglycemia refers to high blood sugar levels. While certain medications can affect glucose metabolism and potentially lead to hyperglycemia as a side effect, this is not typically associated with hydantoin therapy for seizure disorder. Therefore, it is less likely for the patient to experience hyperglycemia as a direct result of taking hydantoin medication.

B. Hunger:

Hunger is not a common side effect of hydantoin therapy for seizure disorder. While some medications may affect appetite or cause changes in eating habits, hunger is not a typical side effect of hydantoin medications such as phenytoin.

C. Hypoglycemia:

Hypoglycemia refers to low blood sugar levels, which can lead to symptoms such as confusion, dizziness, sweating, and weakness. Hydantoin medications, particularly phenytoin, can affect glucose metabolism and increase the risk of hypoglycemia, especially in patients who already have diabetes or are prone to low blood sugar. Therefore, it is important for patients taking hydantoin therapy to monitor their blood sugar levels regularly and be aware of the signs and symptoms of hypoglycemia.

D. Pupil dilation:

Pupil dilation, or mydriasis, is not a common side effect of hydantoin therapy for seizure disorder. While certain medications may affect pupil size, this is not typically associated with hydantoin medications such as phenytoin.