A nurse is reinforcing teaching a client who has a new prescription for phenytoin. The nurse should instruct the client to monitor and report which of the following adverse effects of this medication?
Diarrhea
Wrist pain
Skin rash
Metallic taste
The Correct Answer is C
A. Diarrhea:
Diarrhea is not a common side effect of phenytoin. While gastrointestinal disturbances such as nausea, vomiting, and constipation may occur, diarrhea is less common. Therefore, it is not a primary adverse effect that the nurse should instruct the client to monitor and report.
B. Wrist pain:
Wrist pain is not a common side effect of phenytoin. Side effects related to musculoskeletal issues such as joint pain, muscle weakness, or muscle twitching can occur, but wrist pain specifically is not commonly associated with phenytoin use. Therefore, it is not a primary adverse effect that the nurse should instruct the client to monitor and report.
C. Skin rash:
Skin rash is a potential adverse effect of phenytoin that should be monitored and reported. Phenytoin can cause various skin reactions, including a mild rash or more severe reactions such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis. Therefore, the nurse should instruct the client to promptly report any signs of skin rash or other skin changes.
D. Metallic taste:
Metallic taste is a common side effect of phenytoin. While it is not usually a serious adverse effect, it can be bothersome for some individuals. Therefore, the nurse should instruct the client to monitor for this side effect and report it if it occurs persistently or becomes bothersome.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","B","C","E"]
Explanation
A. Placing padding around or under the patient's head
This is a helpful instruction to include. Placing padding around or under the patient's head can help prevent injury during a seizure by cushioning the head against impact with the ground.
B. Positioning the patient on the side once the relaxation stage is entered to allow oral secretions to drain
This is a correct instruction. Positioning the patient on their side (recovery position) can help prevent aspiration if vomiting occurs during or after the seizure. It also helps clear oral secretions and maintain a clear airway.
C. Having the necessary equipment and/or personnel in case the patient doesn't spontaneously breathe when the seizure is over
This is an important instruction. It is crucial to have emergency equipment (such as oxygen and suction) readily available and to be prepared to provide respiratory support if the patient does not spontaneously breathe after the seizure.
D. Inserting a tongue depressor in the patient's mouth
This is an incorrect instruction. It is not recommended to insert anything into the patient's mouth during a seizure as it can cause injury to the teeth, gums, or airway. Additionally, it is a common misconception that tongue swallowing occurs during seizures, which is rare.
E. Noting the time the seizure started
This is a critical instruction. Noting the time the seizure started helps healthcare providers assess the duration of the seizure and determine if medical intervention is necessary. It also helps monitor the patient's recovery and response to treatment.
F. Holding the patient down to prevent injury
This is an incorrect instruction. Holding the patient down during a seizure can cause injury to both the patient and the person restraining them. It is important to create a safe environment by removing hazards and guiding the patient away from dangerous objects or situations, but holding them down is not appropriate.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Aura phase:
The aura phase occurs before the seizure and is characterized by subjective sensations or experiences that some individuals may have. It serves as a warning sign that a seizure is about to occur. This phase precedes the seizure itself and is not applicable to the period immediately afterward.
B. Presence of automatisms:
Automatisms refer to repetitive, involuntary movements or actions that some individuals may exhibit during certain types of seizures, such as complex partial seizures. They are not typically observed during the postictal phase of a generalized tonic-clonic seizure.
C. Postictal phase:
The postictal phase, also known as the postictal state, refers to the period following a seizure during which the individual may experience confusion, drowsiness, or other altered states of consciousness. This phase typically lasts for minutes to hours and is characterized by gradual recovery of normal function.
D. Presence of absence seizures:
Absence seizures are characterized by brief episodes of altered consciousness, often manifesting as staring spells or momentary loss of awareness. They are distinct from generalized tonic-clonic seizures and do not involve the same postictal phase characterized by drowsiness and altered arousal.
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