The nurse is preparing to assist with blood collection on a newly admitted patient who has been taking phenytoin for several years.
The provider has ordered a complete blood count and liver function tests.
Which other blood test will the nurse discuss with the provider?
Coagulation studies.
Serum electrolytes.
Renal function tests.
Blood glucose.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale
Coagulation studies assess the blood's ability to clot and are not directly related to the monitoring of phenytoin therapy. These tests are more relevant for patients with bleeding disorders or those on anticoagulant therapy.
Choice B rationale
Serum electrolytes, including levels of sodium, potassium, and calcium, are important for overall health but are not specifically indicative of phenytoin levels. Phenytoin may affect calcium metabolism, but it is not the primary focus for routine monitoring.
Choice C rationale
Renal function tests are crucial for assessing kidney function but do not directly monitor phenytoin therapy. Phenytoin is primarily metabolized in the liver, making liver function tests more relevant.
Choice D rationale
Blood glucose levels should be monitored in patients taking phenytoin as the drug can cause alterations in blood glucose levels. Both hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia have been reported, so it is important to check glucose levels to ensure they remain within a normal range.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Monitoring the weekly pulse is not sufficient for managing ventricular arrhythmias at home. Continuous or daily monitoring of vital parameters is more effective.
Choice B rationale
Monitoring daily fluid intake is essential for overall health but not directly related to the management of ventricular arrhythmias with propranolol (Inderal).
Choice C rationale
Daily blood pressure monitoring is crucial for patients on propranolol, as this medication can significantly lower blood pressure, and tracking it helps prevent hypotension.
Choice D rationale
Weekly weight monitoring is important for patients with heart conditions, but daily monitoring of blood pressure is more directly related to the management of ventricular arrhythmias with propranolol.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Antiplatelets do not stimulate the plasmin system, which is involved in breaking down clots.
Choice B rationale
Antiplatelet medications work by altering the formation of the platelet plug, preventing platelets from clumping together.
Choice C rationale
They do not initiate the clotting cascade, which is a separate process from platelet aggregation.
Choice D rationale
They do not interfere with the clotting cascade directly but affect platelet aggregation. .
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