A nurse is reinforcing teaching with a female client who is taking phenytoin. Which of the following statements should the nurse include in the teaching?
"You can safely take this medication if you become pregnant."
"You should expect to have blood work every 6 months while taking this medication."
"You might experience swollen gums while taking this medication."
“You can skip a dose of this medication if you are nauseated."
The Correct Answer is C
Phenytoin is known to cause gingival hyperplasia, which is characterized by swollen and enlarged gums. This side effect is more common in long-term use and may require dental care and regular oral hygiene practices.
Phenytoin is known to be associated with an increased risk of birth defects in babies born to women taking the medication during pregnancy. It is important for women of childbearing age to discuss the risks and benefits of phenytoin with their healthcare provider and use effective contraception to avoid pregnancy while taking the medication.
Phenytoin can affect liver function, so regular monitoring of liver enzymes and blood levels of the medication is necessary. The frequency of blood work may vary depending on the individual's specific situation, so it is important to follow the healthcare provider's instructions.
It is not advisable to skip a dose of phenytoin without consulting a healthcare provider. Abruptly stopping or missing doses of antiepileptic medications can lead to breakthrough seizures or other complications. Any changes in the medication regimen should be discussed with the healthcare provider.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Using the overbed trapeze helps the client strengthen their upper body and improve mobility by allowing them to independently move and reposition themselves in bed. This promotes independence in activities of daily living and reduces reliance on nursing assistance.

Cautioning the client to avoid a prone position while in bed is important for preventing pressure ulcers and maintaining proper positioning, but it does not specifically promote independence and mobility.
Keeping a loose, absorbent dressing over the surgical site is important for wound care and infection prevention, but it does not directly promote mobility or independence.
Maintaining abduction of the client's residual limb with a pillow is important to prevent contractures, but it does not directly promote mobility or independence.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Let me show you how to swaddle and cuddle him, then you try.
The appropriate response for the nurse in this situation is to provide support and education to the new mother. Option B, "Let me show you how to swaddle and cuddle him, then you try," demonstrates a helpful and empowering approach.
I'll take him back to the nursery, so you can get some rest in (option A) is incorrect. This response dismisses the mother's concerns and suggests removing the baby from her care without addressing her need for guidance and support. It is important to encourage and assist the mother in learning how to care for her newborn rather than taking over the responsibility.
If I turn him on his side, maybe he'll go back to sleep in (option C) is incorrect. This response suggests a specific action without addressing the underlying concerns of the mother. It is important to provide guidance and reassurance rather than suggesting potential solutions without understanding the cause of the baby's crying.
Babies need to cry soon after they are born to develop their lungs in (option D) is incorrect. This response is not relevant to the mother's concerns and does not address her feelings of inadequacy. It is important to provide support and guidance in caring for the newborn rather than providing unrelated information.
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