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 C
Explanation
Nausea and vomiting are common side effects of doxycycline, an antibiotic commonly used to treat chlamydial infections. Taking the medication with food or a snack can help alleviate these side effects. The recommendation to take the medication with crackers provides a light source of carbohydrates that can help settle the stomach and reduce nausea.
It is generally not recommended to take doxycycline with calcium-rich foods or beverages, as they can interfere with the absorption of the medication. Calcium can form complexes with doxycycline, reducing its effectiveness. Therefore, it is best to avoid calcium-rich foods and beverages, including calcium-fortified orange juice, when taking doxycycline.
Similar to calcium-rich foods, antacids can also interfere with the absorption of doxycycline. Antacids contain aluminum, magnesium, or calcium, which can bind to doxycycline and reduce its effectiveness. Therefore, it is generally recommended to avoid taking doxycycline with antacids.
While it is important to remain upright for a short period after taking some medications to prevent reflux or aspiration, this recommendation may not specifically address the client's nausea and vomiting. Taking the medication with food, such as crackers, may be more effective in alleviating the symptoms.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Range-of-motion exercises are within the scope of practice for an AP and do not require specialized nursing knowledge or assessment skills. The AP can assist the client in performing these exercises to promote circulation, maintain joint mobility, and prevent complications associated with immobilization.
Determining the circulation status of the affected extremities, evaluating the need for restraints, and providing education to the client's family about the purpose of restraints require nursing assessment, critical thinking, and communication skills. These tasks should be performed by a licensed nurse who can make clinical judgments and ensure the safety and well-being of the client.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today