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 ["A","B","C","E","F","G"]
Explanation
A. "Do not take more than 200 milligrams of this medication within 24 hours." This statement is correct for oral sumatriptan, which has a maximum recommended dose of 200 mg per 24 hours. Clients can take one 50 mg or 100 mg dose initially, and if the headache persists, a second dose can be taken after at least 2 hours, provided the total daily dose does not exceed 200 mg.
B. "You can take a second dose of this medication at least 2 hours after the initial dose if the headache persists." A second dose of sumatriptan can be taken at least 2 hours after the first dose if the headache has not fully resolved. However, if the headache persists after the maximum daily dose (200 mg), the client should not take additional doses and should seek medical evaluation.
C. "You should discontinue this medication if pregnancy is planned or suspected." Sumatriptan is classified as Pregnancy Category C, meaning its effects on fetal development are not well studied. Clients who are pregnant or planning to conceive should consult their healthcare provider before using this medication.
D. "You might experience a rash on your skin while taking this medication." Skin rash is not a common side effect of sumatriptan. If a rash develops, it could indicate an allergic reaction, which should be reported to a provider. However, routine monitoring for rashes is not necessary when taking sumatriptan.
E. "You might experience a feeling of pressure in your chest after taking this medication." Chest tightness or pressure is a known side effect of sumatriptan due to its vasoconstrictive effects. This sensation is usually temporary and not dangerous, but if it becomes severe or persistent, the client should seek medical attention to rule out cardiovascular complications.
F. "This medication can cause you to feel tired." Fatigue, drowsiness, and dizziness are common side effects of sumatriptan. Clients should be cautious when driving or operating machinery until they know how the medication affects them.
G. "This medication should start to alleviate the headache within 1 hour." Sumatriptan typically begins to relieve migraine symptoms within 30 to 60 minutes when taken orally. If the headache does not improve after 2 hours, a second dose may be taken, but the total daily dose should not exceed 200 mg.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Increased salivation. Tobramycin, an aminoglycoside antibiotic, does not cause increased salivation. It primarily affects the kidneys and auditory system, with no significant impact on saliva production. Increased salivation is more commonly associated with medications affecting the autonomic nervous system, such as cholinergic agents.
B. Bruising. While some antibiotics may impact platelet function, aminoglycosides like tobramycin do not commonly cause thrombocytopenia or increased bruising. Clients experiencing unexplained bruising should be evaluated for other underlying causes, such as coagulation disorders or concurrent medication use.
C. Joint pain. Joint pain is not a typical adverse effect of tobramycin. While some antibiotics, like fluoroquinolones, are associated with tendonitis or joint issues, aminoglycosides primarily affect the kidneys and inner ear, leading to nephrotoxicity and ototoxicity rather than musculoskeletal symptoms.
D. Tinnitus. Tobramycin is ototoxic and can cause tinnitus, hearing loss, or balance disturbances due to its toxic effects on the auditory and vestibular nerves. Clients receiving tobramycin should be monitored for early signs of ototoxicity, and the medication should be discontinued if symptoms develop to prevent permanent hearing damage.
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