The nurse is providing discharge instructions to a patient who has a prescription for phenytoin. Which of the following information should the nurse include?
Provide a urine sample to determine therapeutic levels of the medication
Take the medication at the same time every day
Watch for bleeding gums when taking the medication
Consider taking an antacid when on this medication
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale:
Providing a urine sample to determine therapeutic levels of phenytoin is not typically a part of routine discharge instructions. While monitoring of phenytoin levels is important, it's usually done through blood tests, and the frequency of testing is determined by the healthcare provider based on individual patient factors.
Choice C rationale:
Bleeding gums are not a common side effect of phenytoin. While some individuals might experience gum tenderness or overgrowth, significant bleeding is not expected.
Choice D rationale:
Antacids can actually interfere with the absorption of phenytoin, potentially reducing its effectiveness. Therefore, it's generally not recommended to take antacids regularly while on phenytoin therapy. If a patient needs to take an antacid for occasional heartburn or indigestion, it's best to take it at least 2 hours before or after the phenytoin dose.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Rationale for Choice A:
Phenytoin is an anticonvulsant medication used to control seizures. It is typically a long-term medication, and abruptly stopping it can lead to breakthrough seizures or worsen existing seizures.
This statement indicates that the client may not understand the importance of taking phenytoin consistently and the potential consequences of discontinuing it without consulting their doctor.
Rationale for Choice B:
Making an appointment with a dentist is important for all individuals, including those with seizure disorders. There is no specific concern related to phenytoin and dental care that would necessitate further teaching in this context.
Rationale for Choice C:
It is important for clients to understand that switching brands of phenytoin might affect its effectiveness due to slight variations in formulation. However, simply stating awareness of this fact does not necessarily indicate a need for further teaching, as the nurse can assess the client's understanding through further questioning.
Rationale for Choice D:
Notifying a doctor before taking any new medications is crucial for individuals with seizures, as some medications can interact with phenytoin and increase the risk of seizures. This statement demonstrates the client's understanding of an important safety precaution.
Therefore, Choice A is the only statement that suggests a potential lack of understanding about the long-term nature of phenytoin treatment and the dangers of discontinuing it without medical supervision. This highlights the need for further education to ensure the client's safety and adherence to the prescribed medication regimen.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Pitting edema of the hands and fingers is not a typical finding in SLE. It can occur in some cases, but it is more commonly associated with other conditions such as kidney disease or heart failure.
Choice B rationale:
Grey colored, non-purpuric papular rash is not a characteristic of SLE. This type of rash is more commonly seen in conditions such as lichen planus or sarcoidosis.
Choice C rationale:
A dry, red rash across the bridge of the nose and on the cheeks, also known as a malar rash, is a classic sign of SLE. It is often described as a "butterfly rash" because of its shape. The rash is caused by inflammation of the small blood vessels in the skin. It is typically worsened by sun exposure.
Choice D rationale:
Subcutaneous nodules on the ulnar side of the arm are a characteristic finding in rheumatoid arthritis, not SLE.
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