You previously cared for a 38-year-old woman who has a history of seizures after a traumatic emergency cesarean section. Today, you are working in the neurology clinic, and the patient comes in for a routine follow-up appointment. The patient says that because she has not had a seizure since she was in the hospital, she questions how long she will have to continue taking the phenytoin. Which is your best response?
This medication can be stopped after you are seizure-free for a 6-month period.
Only take the medication when you are under stress because that's when you are most likely to have a seizure.
This medication might need to be continued for the rest of your life.
Your seizures are cured only as long as you take the medication.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A reason: Stopping seizure medication such as phenytoin without medical advice can lead to life-threatening seizures. It is not recommended to stop after a set period of being seizure-free without consulting a healthcare provider.
Choice B reason: Phenytoin should not be taken only during periods of stress; it is intended to be used consistently to maintain therapeutic levels in the body.
Choice C reason: Phenytoin may need to be continued indefinitely, depending on the individual's condition and the doctor's recommendation. It is often used as a long-term treatment for seizure control.
Choice D reason: This statement is misleading; while phenytoin helps control seizures, it does not cure the underlying condition causing them.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Aluminum hydroxide is an antacid that is also used to reduce phosphate levels in people with certain kidney conditions. It binds phosphate in the gut and prevents its absorption, which is beneficial for patients with CKD who often have elevated serum phosphorus levels.
Choice B reason: Aluminum hydroxide does not primarily affect serum calcium levels. It is not prescribed for lowering calcium.
Choice C reason: Aluminum hydroxide does not primarily affect serum magnesium levels. It is not prescribed for lowering magnesium.
Choice D reason: While aluminum hydroxide does not directly lower serum potassium levels, it can be used in conjunction with other treatments for hyperkalemia.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: A PR interval of 0.04-0.20 seconds is too broad and includes values that are both below and above the normal range.
Choice B reason: A PR interval of 0.12-0.20 seconds is the established normal range for adults, reflecting proper conduction through the AV node.
Choice C reason: The PR interval being less than half the R-to-R ratio is not a standard measurement for PR intervals and does not provide a specific range.
Choice D reason: A PR interval of 0.08-0.10 seconds is below the normal range and may suggest pre-excitation or an AV nodal (junctional) rhythm.
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