To detect common untoward effects of phenytoin, the nurse should assess a client with a seizure disorder for which sign or symptom?
Hypertension.
Peripheral edema.
Hematuria.
Gingival hyperplasia.
The Correct Answer is D
A) Hypertension: Phenytoin is primarily used to manage seizures, and hypertension is not a common side effect associated with its use. While monitoring blood pressure is important for overall health, it is not specifically indicated for detecting common side effects of phenytoin.
B) Peripheral edema: Peripheral edema is not a typical side effect of phenytoin. Common side effects are usually related to oral health and skin changes rather than fluid retention or swelling in the extremities.
C) Hematuria: Hematuria, or blood in the urine, is not commonly associated with phenytoin use. This side effect is more relevant to other medications or conditions, and while monitoring for overall health changes is important, it is not a primary concern with phenytoin.
D) Gingival hyperplasia: Phenytoin is well-known for causing gingival hyperplasia, which is the overgrowth of gum tissue. This is a common and notable side effect of long-term phenytoin use, making it important for the nurse to assess for this symptom in clients receiving the medication.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Assess the client for other indications of adverse effects of corticosteroid use: While important, this action does not address the immediate issue of stopping the medication safely.
B. Advise the client that the medication should be stopped gradually rather than abruptly: Corticosteroids should not be stopped suddenly due to the risk of adrenal insufficiency and withdrawal symptoms. Gradual tapering is necessary to safely discontinue the medication.
C. Encourage the client to take the medication with food to decrease GI distress: This can help manage GI symptoms but does not address the issue of safely discontinuing the medication.
D. Review the client's dosing schedule to ensure he is taking the prescribed amount: This is useful but does not resolve the problem of safely stopping the medication.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Administer both prescribed medications as scheduled: Given that the client's total calcium level is already elevated (14 mg/dL), administering additional calcium carbonate could exacerbate hypercalcemia. Calcitriol, a form of vitamin D, can also increase calcium levels, so administering it without addressing the high calcium level could worsen the condition.
B. Hold the calcium carbonate, but administer the calcitriol as scheduled: This option is not appropriate because calcitriol can further increase calcium levels, potentially worsening hypercalcemia. Both medications should be reviewed, and their administration should be adjusted according to the client's current calcium status.
C. Hold the calcitriol, but administer the calcium carbonate as scheduled: Holding calcitriol alone would not address the potential for further increasing calcium levels. Calcium carbonate should also be withheld since the client is already hypercalcemic.
D. Hold both medications until contacting the healthcare provider: This is the most appropriate action. The client's elevated calcium level indicates hypercalcemia, which requires careful management. The healthcare provider should be contacted to assess the situation and determine the appropriate course of action to avoid worsening hypercalcemia.
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