A nurse is administering phenytoin to a client. The nurse should monitor for which of the following adverse effects?
Tinnitus
Bleeding gums
Jaundice
Deep vein thrombosis
The Correct Answer is B
A. Tinnitus. Phenytoin is not commonly associated with tinnitus. Ototoxicity is more frequently linked to medications such as aminoglycoside antibiotics, loop diuretics, or high-dose aspirin. While phenytoin affects the nervous system, it does not typically cause ringing in the ears.
B. Bleeding gums. Gingival hyperplasia, characterized by swollen and bleeding gums, is a well-known adverse effect of phenytoin, especially with long-term use. It occurs due to an overgrowth of gum tissue and can be minimized with good oral hygiene and regular dental care. Clients should be advised to brush with a soft-bristled toothbrush and visit the dentist regularly.
C. Jaundice. Although phenytoin is metabolized by the liver, hepatotoxicity and jaundice are not common side effects. However, liver function should still be monitored, particularly in clients with pre-existing liver conditions or those taking other hepatotoxic medications.
D. Deep vein thrombosis. Phenytoin does not significantly increase the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT). While some anticonvulsants may affect coagulation factors, phenytoin is not known to cause hypercoagulability or clot formation. Clients at risk for DVT should be monitored for other contributing factors, such as immobility or genetic predisposition.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Hypertension. Filgrastim, a granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF), primarily stimulates white blood cell production. While minor blood pressure fluctuations can occur, hypertension is not a common or significant adverse effect. Monitoring blood pressure is important, but sustained hypertension is not expected.
B. Fluid retention. Filgrastim does not typically cause significant fluid retention. Medications such as corticosteroids or certain chemotherapeutic agents are more likely to lead to fluid overload. While rare cases of capillary leak syndrome have been reported, general fluid retention is not a primary concern.
C. Bone pain. Bone pain is the most common adverse effect of filgrastim. The medication stimulates bone marrow activity, leading to increased production of neutrophils, which can cause discomfort in bones, particularly in long bones such as the femur and sternum. Pain is usually mild to moderate and can be managed with acetaminophen or NSAIDs if appropriate.
D. Hypokalemia. Filgrastim does not have a direct effect on potassium levels. Electrolyte imbalances are more commonly associated with diuretics, corticosteroids, or chemotherapy. Clients on filgrastim typically do not require routine potassium monitoring unless other risk factors are present.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Anorexia. While gastrointestinal side effects such as nausea and esophageal irritation can occur with alendronate, anorexia is not a common adverse effect. If severe nausea leads to decreased appetite, the client should report this to their provider, but it is not a primary concern compared to more serious side effects.
B. Jaw pain. Jaw pain can indicate osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ), a rare but serious adverse effect associated with long-term bisphosphonate use. This condition involves poor bone healing, especially after dental procedures, and can lead to bone deterioration. Clients taking alendronate should report any persistent jaw pain and undergo regular dental exams to monitor bone health.
C. Insomnia. Alendronate does not typically cause insomnia. While some medications, such as corticosteroids and stimulants, are linked to sleep disturbances, alendronate does not affect the central nervous system in a way that would disrupt sleep patterns.
D. Bruising. Alendronate does not interfere with platelet function or coagulation, making bruising an unlikely adverse effect. Clients who experience unexplained bruising should be evaluated for other underlying causes, such as blood disorders or medication interactions.
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