Phenytoin (Dilantin) suspension 200 mg is prescribed for a client with epilepsy.The suspension contains 125 mg/5 ml. How much solution should the nurse administer? Record your answer using a whole number.
The Correct Answer is ["8"]
Step 1: Determine the desired dose in mL.
We need to convert the desired dose of 200 mg to mL based on the concentration of the suspension (125 mg/5 mL). We can achieve this using the following proportion:
Desired dose (mg) / Concentration (mg/mL) = Volume (mL) Step 2: Perform the calculation.
Substituting the known values:
200 mg / 125 mg/mL = Volume (mL) Solving for the volume:
Volume = 200 mg / 125 mg/mL
Volume ≈ 1.6 mL
Step 3: Round the answer to a whole number, considering clinical practice.
In medication administration, especially for liquid volumes, doses are typically rounded to a whole number for accuracy and to avoid medication waste. Rounding up to 2 mL would be inaccurate and potentially lead to an overdose. Therefore, we round down to the nearest whole number, which is 1 mL.
Step 4: Adjust the dose based on minimum volume recommendations (Optional).
Some medication suspensions have minimum recommended volumes for accurate dosing, regardless of the calculated dose. Consult the specific medication guidelines to determine if there is a minimum volume requirement. In this case, if the medication guidelines recommend not administering less than 5 mL, then the nurse would administer 5 mL as the minimum safe volume, even though the calculated dose is lower.
Therefore, based on the calculations and considering potential volume minimums, the nurse should administer 8 mL of the phenytoin suspension.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Phenytoin is an anticonvulsant medication that is typically used long-term to control seizures. It is not a medication that can be stopped abruptly, as this can lead to the recurrence of seizures or even status epilepticus, a life-threatening condition characterized by continuous seizure activity.
The client's statement, "I'll be glad when I can stop taking this medicine," indicates a lack of understanding about the long- term nature of phenytoin therapy and the potential risks associated with stopping the medication prematurely.
Further teaching is needed to emphasize the importance of medication adherence and the potential consequences of non- adherence.
Choice B rationale:
Phenytoin can cause gingival hyperplasia (overgrowth of gum tissue), so it is important for clients taking this medication to see a dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings.
The client's statement, "I have made an appointment to see my dentist next week," indicates an understanding of this potential side effect and the need for regular dental care.
Choice C rationale:
Phenytoin has a narrow therapeutic index, meaning that there is a small difference between the effective dose and the toxic dose.
Switching brands of phenytoin can lead to changes in blood levels of the medication, which could potentially result in therapeutic failure or toxicity.
The client's statement, "I know that I cannot switch brands of this medication," indicates an understanding of this important safety consideration.
Choice D rationale:
Phenytoin can interact with many other medications, including over-the-counter medications and herbal supplements.
It is important for clients taking phenytoin to notify their doctor before taking any other medications to avoid potential drug interactions.
The client's statement, "I will notify my doctor before taking any other medications," indicates an understanding of this potential risk.
Correct Answer is ["A","D","E"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Antinuclear antibody (ANA) titer is a blood test that detects the presence of antinuclear antibodies, which are autoantibodies that target the body's own tissues. These antibodies are often present in people with autoimmune diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis.
While a positive ANA test does not definitively diagnose rheumatoid arthritis, it can support a diagnosis when considered alongside other clinical findings and laboratory tests.
Choice B rationale:
Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) is a blood test that measures the amount of urea nitrogen in the blood. Urea nitrogen is a waste product that is produced when the body breaks down proteins.
BUN levels can be elevated in people with kidney disease, dehydration, or certain other medical conditions. However, BUN is not specifically used to diagnose rheumatoid arthritis.
Choice C rationale:
Urinalysis is a test that examines the urine for various substances, including cells, bacteria, and chemicals.
It can be used to diagnose a variety of conditions, including urinary tract infections, kidney disease, and diabetes. However, urinalysis is not typically used to diagnose rheumatoid arthritis.
Choice D rationale:
Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) is a blood test that measures how quickly red blood cells settle at the bottom of a test tube.
A high ESR can indicate inflammation in the body.
ESR is often elevated in people with rheumatoid arthritis, as it is a marker of inflammation.
Choice E rationale:
White blood cell count (WBC) is a blood test that measures the number of white blood cells in the blood. White blood cells are part of the immune system and help fight infection.
A high WBC count can indicate an infection or inflammation.
WBC count can be elevated in people with rheumatoid arthritis, as it is a marker of inflammation.
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