After teaching a client who is diagnosed with new-onset status epilepticus and prescribed phenytoin (Dilantin), the nurse assesses the client’s understanding. Which statement by the client indicates a correct understanding of the teaching?
To prevent complications, I will drink at least 2 liters of water daily.
This medication will stop me from getting an aura before a seizure.
I will not drive a motor vehicle while taking this medication.
Even when my seizures stop, I will continue to take this drug.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A reason: Drinking 2 liters of water daily supports general health but is not specific to phenytoin therapy. It does not prevent complications like gingival hyperplasia or hepatotoxicity, which are more directly related to phenytoin’s pharmacological effects and monitoring needs.
Choice B reason: Phenytoin does not eliminate seizure auras, which are sensory warnings due to focal cortical activity. It stabilizes neuronal membranes via sodium channel blockade, reducing seizure frequency but not preventing prodromal symptoms like auras.
Choice C reason: Not driving is appropriate, as phenytoin can cause dizziness or ataxia, impairing motor coordination. However, this is a safety precaution, not the most comprehensive indicator of understanding the need for long-term adherence to prevent seizure recurrence.
Choice D reason: Continuing phenytoin even after seizures stop is critical, as abrupt cessation can cause rebound seizures due to unopposed neuronal excitability. This reflects understanding of lifelong therapy needs for status epilepticus to maintain seizure control and prevent recurrence.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: Dairy products like milk and yogurt are rich in calcium, essential for bone mineralization. Calcium supports osteoblast activity, strengthening bones and preventing osteoporosis progression, making this a correct dietary choice for bone health.
Choice B reason: Green leafy vegetables like spinach provide calcium and vitamin K, which supports bone matrix formation and mineralization. Including these in the diet is beneficial for osteoporosis, as they enhance bone density, indicating correct understanding.
Choice C reason: Excessive coffee intake increases urinary calcium excretion, reducing available calcium for bone formation. Caffeine also inhibits osteoblast activity, worsening bone loss in osteoporosis, indicating a misunderstanding of dietary impacts on bone health, requiring further teaching.
Choice D reason: Taking a calcium supplement with a meal enhances absorption, as stomach acid aids calcium ionization. This supports bone mineralization in osteoporosis, reflecting correct understanding of dietary supplementation to improve bone density and prevent fractures.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Removing a medical alert bracelet is not a priority, as it does not address the fracture’s immediate needs. The bracelet provides critical information (e.g., diabetes status) for emergency care, and its removal could delay appropriate management of comorbidities.
Choice B reason: Immobilizing the fractured arm with a splint is the priority to prevent further tissue damage, reduce pain, and stabilize the fracture site. In diabetes, poor wound healing increases complication risks, making immediate immobilization critical to minimize movement and promote healing.
Choice C reason: Placing the client supine with a blanket addresses comfort but not the fracture’s urgent needs. Immobilization takes precedence to prevent bone displacement, which could complicate healing, especially in diabetes, where vascular issues impair recovery.
Choice D reason: Covering open areas with a sterile dressing is necessary for open fractures to prevent infection, but the question does not specify an open fracture. Immobilization is the first action for any fracture to ensure stability and reduce complications.
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