Which condition would indicate to the nurse that the patient has a phenytoin (Dilantin) toxicity?
Nystagmus
Strabismus
Blurry vision
Amblyopia
The Correct Answer is A
A. Nystagmus:
Nystagmus is an involuntary, rhythmic movement of the eyes, which can be rapid and jerky. It is a common neurological manifestation of phenytoin toxicity. Patients experiencing phenytoin toxicity may exhibit horizontal or vertical nystagmus, which can be detected upon physical examination.
B. Strabismus:
Strabismus, also known as crossed eyes or squint, refers to a misalignment of the eyes. While strabismus can have various causes, it is not typically associated with phenytoin toxicity. Therefore, it is less likely to indicate phenytoin toxicity compared to nystagmus.
C. Blurry vision:
Blurry vision, or visual disturbances, can occur in patients experiencing phenytoin toxicity. However, it is a non-specific symptom and can be observed in various other conditions as well. Patients with phenytoin toxicity may experience blurry vision, double vision (diplopia), or other visual disturbances due to the effects of the medication on the central nervous system.
D. Amblyopia:
Amblyopia, also known as lazy eye, is a condition characterized by reduced vision in one or both eyes. It is typically associated with visual development during childhood and is not directly related to phenytoin toxicity. Therefore, it is less likely to indicate phenytoin toxicity compared to nystagmus or other neurological manifestations.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Semicomatose:
This term suggests a state between consciousness and coma. A patient who is semicomatose may exhibit some level of responsiveness but is typically unresponsive or only responds to intense stimuli.
B. Somnolent:
Somnolence refers to a state of drowsiness or sleepiness. A somnolent patient may appear sleepy, have difficulty staying awake, and may be slow to respond to stimuli. However, the withdrawal from painful stimuli described in the scenario suggests a higher level of responsiveness than what would typically be expected in a somnolent state.
C. Lethargic:
Lethargy describes a state of reduced alertness or responsiveness. A lethargic patient may appear drowsy, sluggish, and have diminished responses to stimuli. The description of the patient as stuporous (having a decreased level of consciousness) but still reacting by withdrawing from painful stimuli aligns with the characteristics of lethargy.
D. Comatose:
Coma refers to a state of profound unconsciousness where the patient is unresponsive to all stimuli, including painful stimuli. A comatose patient does not demonstrate any purposeful movement or response to stimuli. Since the patient in the scenario exhibits some response to painful stimuli by withdrawing, they do not meet the criteria for being comatose.
Correct Answer is ["15"]
Explanation
To calculate the dose of phenytoin suspension, the nurse should use the following formula:
Dose (mL) = Desired dose (mg) / Concentration (mg/mL) x Volume (mL)
Plugging in the values from the question, we get:
Dose (mL) = 75 mg / (25 mg/5 mL) x 5 mL
Dose (mL) = 15 mL
Therefore, the nurse should administer 15 mL of phenytoin suspension to the patient
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