A nurse is teaching a client who has a new prescription for diazepam. Which of the following information should the nurse include in the teaching?

B. Shake the container vigorously:

This is the correct action. Phenytoin suspension tends to settle over time, leading to non-uniform distribution of the medication in the suspension. Therefore, shaking the container vigorously before administering each dose ensures proper dispersion of the medication and helps maintain consistent drug concentration, thus promoting therapeutic efficacy.

A. Check the child's blood pressure:

Checking the child's blood pressure is not directly related to the administration of phenytoin suspension. Monitoring blood pressure may be indicated in certain clinical situations or with certain medications, but it is not specifically required before administering phenytoin suspension.

C. Be sure the child has not eaten within the hour:

While it's important to consider food-drug interactions with certain medications, such as those affected by food intake, there are no specific dietary restrictions associated with phenytoin suspension administration. Therefore, checking whether the child has eaten within the hour is not a necessary step before administering phenytoin suspension.

D. Perform mouth care:

Performing mouth care is not directly related to the administration of phenytoin suspension. However, oral hygiene is important for overall health, especially in children who may have difficulty performing adequate mouth care independently. While mouth care should be encouraged, it is not specifically required before administering phenytoin suspension.

A. Avoid flossing the teeth to prevent gum irritation: There is no evidence to suggest that flossing the teeth increases the risk of gum irritation with phenytoin use. In fact, proper dental hygiene, including flossing, is essential to prevent gum disease, which can be exacerbated by the medication.

B. Alcohol increases the chance of phenytoin toxicity: Consumption of alcohol can increase the risk of phenytoin toxicity by enhancing its effects. Therefore, clients taking phenytoin should avoid alcohol consumption to prevent adverse effects and ensure the medication's efficacy.

C. Take an antacid with the medication if indigestion occurs: Phenytoin can interact with antacids, reducing its absorption and effectiveness. Therefore, clients should not take antacids concurrently with phenytoin unless directed by their healthcare provider.

D. Phenytoin turns urine blue: Phenytoin does not typically cause changes in urine color. This statement is incorrect and not relevant to the client's medication regimen.