A nurse is caring for a client who was prescribed phenytoin. Which of the following adverse effects of this medication should the nurse report to the provider?
Gingival hyperplasia
Drowsiness
Ataxia
Hirsutism
The Correct Answer is C
C Ataxia can occur as a side effect of phenytoin, especially if the dosage is too high or if the client is particularly sensitive to the medication. It can impair the client's ability to perform activities of daily living safely. Therefore, it should be monitored closely, and significant ataxia should be reported to the provider for evaluation and possible adjustment of the medication dosage.
A. This is a known adverse effect of phenytoin. It can cause the gums to become swollen, enlarged, and prone to bleeding. Although it is not typically harmful to the client's health, it can affect oral hygiene and appearance. The nurse should educate the client about good oral care practices and encourage regular dental check-ups. While it does not necessarily need to be reported immediately, it should be documented and monitored.
B. Drowsiness is a common side effect of phenytoin and many other anticonvulsant medications. It often occurs initially or when the dosage is increased. While it can affect the client's daily activities and quality of life, it does not usually require immediate reporting unless it is severe or persistent.
D. Hirsutism is a less common side effect of phenytoin. It results from hormonal changes induced by the medication. While it may not pose an immediate threat to the client's health, it can cause distress and affect self-esteem. Therefore, it should be reported to the provider for further assessment and management.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Monitoring respiratory rate and depth is critical during and after midazolam administration to detect signs of respiratory depression, such as decreased respiratory rate, shallow breathing, or oxygen desaturation. Prompt intervention may include providing supplemental oxygen or even reversal agents like flumazenil if necessary.
B. Ringing in the ears (tinnitus) is not a common adverse effect associated with midazolam. Tinnitus is more commonly associated with medications that affect the inner ear or auditory nerve, such as some antibiotics or high-dose salicylates (aspirin).
C. Midazolam typically causes a decrease in blood pressure due to its central nervous system depressant effects, including vasodilation. Monitoring blood pressure is important during midazolam administration, as hypotension may occur. However, increased blood pressure is not an expected adverse effect of midazolam.
D. Midazolam does not typically cause urinary retention. Urinary retention is more commonly associated with medications that affect bladder function, such as opioids or anticholinergic drugs.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
B. Hearing loss can indeed be an adverse effect associated with furosemide use, especially when high doses are administered rapidly intravenously or when the medication is used long-term. This occurs due to furosemide's potential to cause ototoxicity, affecting the inner ear and leading to hearing impairment.
A. Furosemide is not known to increase blood pressure. In fact, it typically helps reduce blood pressure by reducing fluid volume through its diuretic action. Therefore, increased blood pressure would not be an adverse effect of furosemide.
C Ankle edema is not typically an adverse effect of furosemide. In fact, furosemide is used to treat edema by reducing fluid retention, so the presence of ankle edema would indicate inadequate response to the medication or progression of the underlying condition.
D. Furosemide is not known to cause decreased blood sugar levels. Instead, it can cause electrolyte imbalances such as hypokalemia (low potassium levels), which might manifest with symptoms similar to hypoglycemia but does not directly lower blood sugar levels.
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