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 A
Explanation
Monitoring the infant's lymphocyte count is important in evaluating the immune function of the infant. HIV primarily affects the immune system, including lymphocytes. Monitoring the lymphocyte count helps assess the progression of the disease and the effectiveness of treatment.
Exchange transfusions are not typically used in the management of HIV. They are primarily performed in conditions like severe neonatal jaundice or blood disorders, but not for the treatment of HIV.
Granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) is a medication used to stimulate the production of white blood cells called granulocytes. While G-CSF can be used in certain situations, such as to counteract the side effects of certain chemotherapy drugs, it is not a standard treatment for HIV in infants.
Droplet precautions are typically implemented for infectious diseases that spread through respiratory droplets, such as influenza or respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). HIV does not spread through respiratory droplets, so initiating droplet precautions would not be necessary in the care of an infant with HIV.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A: While nitroglycerin is a common medication for angina, calling the provider after just one dose is not the recommended action. Nitroglycerin helps relax coronary arteries and improve blood supply to the heart. However, if chest pain persists, the client should follow additional steps..
Choice B: This describes the Valsalva maneuver, which involves holding the breath and bearing down as though straining to initiate a bowel movement. While this technique can regulate heart rhythms and help the ears to pop, it is not the recommended response to chest pain from angina.
Choice C: Correct: This statement demonstrates an understanding of appropriate action. When experiencing angina, the client should stop any physical activity, sit down, or lie down. Resting helps reduce the heart’s workload and allows blood flow to stabilize.
Choice D: Aspirin can be beneficial during angina episodes. However, the recommended dose is usually 162 to 325 milligrams (one tablet). Taking two tablets at once may not be necessary unless specifically advised by a healthcare provider.
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