What is the responsibility of the nurse related to the patient’s drug therapy? Select all that apply.

Choice A rationale

Clonic-tonic muscle contraction is related to convulsions and seizures but does not accurately define epilepsy. Epilepsy is a neurological disorder characterized by recurrent seizures due to abnormal electrical activity in the brain.

Choice B rationale

Epilepsy involves abnormal electrical discharges in the brain, not in the muscles. Muscle contractions are a symptom of seizures, not the cause of epilepsy.

Choice C rationale

Epilepsy is not a single disease; it encompasses various conditions characterized by recurrent seizures. It is a spectrum of disorders with different causes and manifestations.

Choice D rationale

This choice accurately describes epilepsy as characterized by sudden, recurrent, and transient disturbances in brain function due to abnormal electrical discharges in the brain.

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.