Exhibits
The healthcare provider comes to the bedside following the seizure and prescribes phenytoin. The nurse administers the phenytoin as prescribed. Which possible side effect(s) of phenytoin should the nurse assess for after administration? Select all that apply.
Vomiting
Altered blood coagulation
Visual disturbances
Drowsiness
Aphasia
Ataxia
Correct Answer : B,C,D,F
A. Vomiting is not a common side effect of phenytoin but could occur in some patients. It’s more likely a
reaction to the medication rather than a frequent side effect.
B. Phenytoin can affect blood coagulation. It may interfere with vitamin K metabolism, which can alter coagulation pathways and increase the risk of bleeding or bruising. Monitoring for signs of bleeding or changes in clotting status is important, particularly in patients on long-term therapy.
C. Visual disturbances, including nystagmus (involuntary eye movements), double vision, or blurred vision, can occur with phenytoin use. This side effect is related to the medication’s impact on the nervous system.
D. Drowsiness is a common side effect of many antiepileptic drugs, including phenytoin. It can affect the client’s alertness and overall level of consciousness, making it important for the nurse to monitor and address any related safety concerns.
E. Aphasia, or difficulty with language and speech, is not a typical side effect of phenytoin. While phenytoin affects the central nervous system, aphasia is not commonly reported with its use.
F. Ataxia, or lack of coordination and unsteady movements, is a known side effect of phenytoin. This occurs due to its effects on the nervous system and can impair motor skills and coordination.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Client describes a schedule for antacid use with other prescribed medications: While antacids might be part of the management plan, they do not address the underlying issue of rapid gastric emptying.
B. This is the most relevant outcome for a client who has developed post-Billroth II dumping syndrome, characterized by nausea, diarrhea, and diaphoresis after meals. Small, frequent meals with fluid intake between meals can help regulate blood sugar levels and reduce the rapid emptying of stomach contents into the small intestine, which is a primary cause of dumping syndrome.
C. Smoking can affect overall health but is not directly related to dumping syndrome.
D. Stress management is important for overall well-being but does not directly address the physiological changes causing dumping syndrome.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. This is the most crucial information to provide. A scleral buckling procedure is performed to repair a retinal detachment. Any signs of detachment recurrence are critical and should be reported immediately. Directly addresses the primary goal of the surgery.
B. While maintaining the head in a specific position is often recommended post-surgery, it's not the most critical information in this context. The focus should be on identifying potential complications. Not as critical as the other options.
C. Infection is a potential complication of any surgery, but it's not the primary concern immediately post-scleral buckling. Important but not the most critical information.
D. Ambulation is generally encouraged to prevent complications like pneumonia and deep vein thrombosis, but it's not a specific concern immediately post-scleral buckling. Not directly related to the procedure.
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