A client with a seizure disorder is seen at the clinic for a follow-up visit and a prescription renewal for phenytoin. Which assessment finding warrants immediate intervention by the nurse?
Blood pressure 100/78 mm Hg.
Double vision.
Puffy, bleeding gums.
Chronic insomnia.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason: This is not an assessment finding that warrants immediate intervention by the nurse. Blood pressure 100/78 mm Hg is within the normal range for an adult, and it does not indicate any adverse effect of phenytoin. The nurse should monitor the blood pressure for any changes, but it is not a priority.
Choice B reason: This is an assessment finding that warrants immediate intervention by the nurse. Double vision, or diplopia, is a sign of phenytoin toxicity, which can occur due to overdose, drug interactions, or impaired metabolism. Double vision can impair the client's vision, balance, and coordination, and increase the risk of falls and injuries. The nurse should stop the phenytoin infusion, if applicable, and notify the healthcare provider. The nurse should also check the serum phenytoin level and other vital signs, and prepare to administer an antidote, such as fosphenytoin, if indicated.
Choice C reason: This is not an assessment finding that warrants immediate intervention by the nurse. Puffy, bleeding gums are a common side effect of phenytoin, which can cause gingival hyperplasia, or overgrowth of the gum tissue. Puffy, bleeding gums are not life-threatening, but they can affect the client's oral hygiene and appearance. The nurse should instruct the client to brush and floss the teeth regularly, and to visit a dentist for dental care.
Choice D reason: This is not an assessment finding that warrants immediate intervention by the nurse. Chronic insomnia is not a common or serious side effect of phenytoin, which is an anticonvulsant that can have sedative effects. Chronic insomnia may be caused by other factors, such as stress, pain, or caffeine intake. The nurse should assess the client's sleep pattern and quality, and provide education and counseling on sleep hygiene and relaxation techniques.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: Providing a heating pad to the client may provide some temporary relief, but it does not address the underlying cause of the neck discomfort, which is likely due to extrapyramidal side effects (EPS) of the antipsychotic medication.
Choice B reason: Obtaining a prescription for physical therapy services may be beneficial for the client's overall health and well-being, but it is not the best intervention for the acute problem of neck discomfort. Physical therapy may also require a referral and a waiting period, which would delay the relief for the client.
Choice C reason: Giving a PRN prescription for benztropine is the best intervention for the nurse to implement, as benztropine is an anticholinergic medication that can counteract the EPS of the antipsychotic medication. Benztropine can reduce the muscle stiffness and spasms that cause the neck discomfort.
Choice D reason: Obtaining an extra pillow for the client to use at night may help the client sleep better, but it does not address the neck discomfort during the day. It also does not treat the EPS of the antipsychotic medication, which may worsen over time.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: Diabetic ketoacidosis is a complication of diabetes that occurs when the body produces high levels of ketones due to lack of insulin. Glucagon is not indicated for this condition, as it would increase the blood glucose level even more. The nurse should instruct the client and family to monitor the blood glucose and ketone levels, administer insulin as prescribed, and seek medical attention if the condition worsens.
Choice B reason: Glucagon is not used to prevent hyperglycemia, which is a high blood glucose level. Glucagon is a hormone that raises the blood glucose level by stimulating the breakdown of glycogen in the liver. The nurse should instruct the client and family to prevent hyperglycemia by following a balanced diet, taking insulin as prescribed, and exercising regularly.
Choice C reason: Glucagon is not used when the client is unable to eat during sick days, unless the client has signs of hypoglycemia, which is a low blood glucose level. Glucagon is used as a last resort when the client is unconscious or unable to swallow. The nurse should instruct the client and family to follow the sick day rules, which include monitoring the blood glucose and urine ketone levels, taking insulin as prescribed, drinking fluids, and eating small amounts of carbohydrates.
Choice D reason: Glucagon is used when the client has signs of severe hypoglycemia, such as confusion, seizures, or loss of consciousness. Glucagon is injected subcutaneously or intramuscularly by a family member or a caregiver to raise the blood glucose level quickly. The nurse should instruct the client and family to recognize the signs of hypoglycemia, treat mild to moderate hypoglycemia with oral glucose, and call 911 after administering glucagon.
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