What drug might the nurse administer to achieve both analgesic and antitussive effects?

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.

Choice A rationale

Ethosuximide (Zarontin) is used to treat absence seizures and is not suitable for emergency control of status epilepticus. It primarily works by affecting the T-type calcium channels in the brain.

Choice B rationale

Diazepam (Valium) is used in the emergency control of status epilepticus due to its fast-acting anticonvulsant properties. It enhances the effect of the neurotransmitter GABA, leading to an inhibitory effect on neuronal activity.

Choice C rationale

Phenobarbital (Luminal) is a barbiturate used for long-term management of epilepsy but is less preferred for immediate emergency control of status epilepticus due to its slower onset of action.

Choice D rationale

Phenytoin (Dilantin) can be used for the maintenance treatment of seizures, but it is less effective for the immediate control of status epilepticus compared to benzodiazepines like diazepam.