The nurse is teaching a client with parkinsonism about carbidopa-levodopa. Which statement(s) by the client indicate(s) the need for further teaching? Select All That Apply

A. Parkinson's disease

Edrophonium is not used for the diagnosis of Parkinson's disease. Parkinson's disease is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by motor symptoms such as tremors, rigidity, and bradykinesia. The diagnosis is typically based on clinical symptoms and neurological examination.

B. Alzheimer's disease

Edrophonium is not used for the diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease. Alzheimer's disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder affecting cognition. The diagnosis involves clinical evaluation, cognitive assessments, and sometimes imaging studies, but not the use of edrophonium.

C. Myasthenia Gravis

This is the correct choice. Edrophonium is used as a diagnostic tool in Myasthenia Gravis. In individuals with Myasthenia Gravis, the administration of edrophonium can lead to a temporary improvement in muscle strength, helping to confirm the diagnosis.

D. Serotonin Syndrome

Edrophonium is not used for the diagnosis of serotonin syndrome. Serotonin syndrome is a condition caused by an excess of serotonin, often due to the use of certain medications. Diagnosis is based on clinical symptoms and a history of serotonin-affecting medications, not the administration of edrophonium.

A. "Continue taking OCPS because phenytoin is not safe during pregnancy."

This statement is not accurate. While it's essential to address pregnancy risk, phenytoin can reduce the effectiveness of oral contraceptives. Women on phenytoin are often advised to use additional contraceptive measures.

B. "You should use a backup method of contraception along with OCPs."

This is the correct response. Phenytoin can accelerate the metabolism of oral contraceptives, potentially reducing their effectiveness. Using a backup method, such as condoms, is recommended to ensure adequate contraception.

C. "You should stop taking OCPs because of drug-drug interactions with phenytoin."

This advice is generally not recommended without consulting the healthcare provider. Abruptly stopping OCPs without an alternative form of contraception can increase the risk of unintended pregnancy.

D. "You should take low-dose aspirin while taking these medications to reduce your risk of stroke."

This statement is not relevant to the situation described. Low-dose aspirin is not typically recommended for contraception, and its use in this context does not address the potential interaction between phenytoin and oral contraceptives.