The nurse is preparing to assist with blood collection on a newly admitted patient who has been taking phenytoin for several years.
The provider has ordered a complete blood count and liver function tests.
Which other blood test will the nurse discuss with the provider?
Coagulation studies.
Serum electrolytes.
Renal function tests.
Blood glucose.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale
Coagulation studies assess the blood's ability to clot and are not directly related to the monitoring of phenytoin therapy. These tests are more relevant for patients with bleeding disorders or those on anticoagulant therapy.
Choice B rationale
Serum electrolytes, including levels of sodium, potassium, and calcium, are important for overall health but are not specifically indicative of phenytoin levels. Phenytoin may affect calcium metabolism, but it is not the primary focus for routine monitoring.
Choice C rationale
Renal function tests are crucial for assessing kidney function but do not directly monitor phenytoin therapy. Phenytoin is primarily metabolized in the liver, making liver function tests more relevant.
Choice D rationale
Blood glucose levels should be monitored in patients taking phenytoin as the drug can cause alterations in blood glucose levels. Both hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia have been reported, so it is important to check glucose levels to ensure they remain within a normal range.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Unstable angina is characterized by sudden, severe chest pain that occurs at rest or with minimal exertion and is not relieved by nitroglycerin. It represents an imminent risk of myocardial infarction.
Choice B rationale
Ischemic heart disease can cause various types of angina, including stable, unstable, and Prinzmetal’s angina. The term “ischemic” refers to a lack of blood flow to the heart muscle, but this choice is too broad.
Choice C rationale
Stable angina occurs when there is an imbalance between myocardial oxygen supply and demand, typically during physical exertion or emotional stress. It is characterized by predictable chest pain that is relieved by rest or nitroglycerin.
Choice D rationale
Prinzmetal’s angina, also known as variant angina, is caused by a spasm in the coronary arteries, which leads to a temporary reduction in blood flow. It can occur at rest and is not necessarily related to the imbalance of myocardial supply and demand.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Asking the patient what time of day the medication is taken can help identify if taking it at a different time might alleviate sleep disturbances. SSRIs like sertraline can cause insomnia if taken later in the day.
Choice B rationale
Recommending a weekly dosage is inappropriate and could potentially disrupt the therapeutic effect. SSRIs should be taken daily, as prescribed.
Choice C rationale
Counseling the patient to take the medication at bedtime could worsen sleep disturbances, as sertraline may cause insomnia in some individuals. Timing should be adjusted based on patient response.
Choice D rationale
Suggesting a lower dose without consulting the provider may not address the issue effectively and could reduce the efficacy of the medication. Dosage adjustments should be made based on clinical assessment and provider recommendation.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.