A nurse is performing discharge teaching for a client who has seizures and a new prescription for phenytoin. Which of the following statements by the client indicates a need for further teaching?
"I'll be glad when I can stop taking this medicine."
"I have made an appointment to see my dentist next week."
"I will notify my doctor before taking any other medications."
"I know that I cannot switch brands of this medication."
The Correct Answer is A
Phenytoin is an anticonvulsant medication that is used to prevent and treat seizures. It works by stabilizing the electrical activity of the brain and reducing the spread of abnormal impulses. Phenytoin is usually taken for life or until the seizures are controlled by other means, such as surgery or diet. The client should not stop taking phenytoin without consulting their doctor, as this can cause withdrawal symptoms or increase the risk of seizures.
The other options are correct and indicate that the client understands the discharge teaching because:
- "I have made an appointment to see my dentist next week." This statement is correct because phenytoin can cause gingival hyperplasia, which is an overgrowth of gum tissue that can lead to bleeding, infection, or difficulty chewing. The client should practice good oral hygiene and see their dentist regularly to prevent or treat this condition.
- "I will notify my doctor before taking any other medications." This statement is correct because phenytoin can interact with many other medications, such as antibiotics, anticoagulants, oral contraceptives, or antacids. These interactions can affect the blood levels and effectiveness of phenytoin or the other medications, causing adverse effects or reduced seizure control. The client should inform their doctor of any other medications they are taking or planning to take, including over-the-counter, herbal, or dietary supplements.
- "I know that I cannot switch brands of this medication." This statement is correct because different brands of phenytoin may have different formulations or bioavailability, which can affect the absorption and metabolism of the drug. Switching brands can cause changes in the blood levels and effectiveness of phenytoin, leading to toxicity or reduced seizure control. The client should always use the same brand of phenytoin and check with their pharmacist if they notice any changes in the appearance or labeling of their medication.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
The priority nursing action is to notify the provider of the client's allergy because shellfish allergy may indicate an allergy to iodine, which is commonly used as a contrast dye in cardiac catheterization. This could cause a severe allergic reaction or anaphylaxis during the procedure, which could be life-threatening. The provider may need to order a different type of contrast dye or premedicate the client with antihistamines or steroids to prevent an allergic reaction.
a. Ask the client if any other foods cause such a reaction is wrong because it is not the priority action and it does not address the potential risk of iodine allergy.
c. Notify the dietary department of the client's allergy is wrong because it is not relevant to the cardiac catheterization and it does not prevent an allergic reaction during the procedure.
d. Atach a wrist band indicating the client's allergy is wrong because it is not sufficient to alert the provider or the catheterization team of the client's allergy and it does not prevent an allergic reaction during the procedure.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Impaired tissue perfusion is a nursing diagnosis that indicates a decrease in oxygen and nutrient delivery to the tissues, resulting in cellular dysfunction and potential tissue damage or necrosis. It is the priority nursing diagnosis for a client who has varicose veins with ulcerations and lower extremity edema, as these are signs of chronic venous insufficiency, which is a condition in which the veins in the legs fail to return blood to the heart effectively, causing blood to pool and stagnate in the lower extremities. This leads to increased venous pressure, inflammation, and impaired wound healing, which can cause skin breakdown, infection, and tissue necrosis. The nurse should monitor the client's vital signs, peripheral pulses, capillary refill, skin color, temperature, and sensation, and implement interventions to improve venous return and prevent further complications, such as elevating the legs, applying compression stockings, encouraging ambulation, administering medications, and providing wound care.
Alteration in body image. This is a nursing diagnosis that indicates a negative perception or dissatisfaction with one's physical appearance or function. It may be applicable for a client who has varicose veins with ulcerations and lower extremity edema, as these may affect their self-esteem and social interactions. However, it is not the priority nursing diagnosis for this client, as it does not pose an immediate threat to their health or safety.
Alteration in activity tolerance. This is a nursing diagnosis that indicates a decrease in the ability to perform physical activities without experiencing fatigue, dyspnea, or other symptoms. It may be applicable for a client who has varicose veins with ulcerations and lower extremity edema, as these may limit their mobility and endurance. However, it is not the priority nursing diagnosis for this client, as it does not pose an immediate threat to their health or safety.
Impaired skin integrity. This is a nursing diagnosis that indicates a disruption or damage to the epidermis or dermis layers of the skin. It is applicable for a client who has varicose veins with ulcerations and lower extremity edema, as these can cause skin breakdown and infection. However, it is not the priority nursing diagnosis for this client, as it is a consequence of impaired tissue perfusion, which is the underlying problem that needs to be addressed first.
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