Burns Pediatric Primary Care 7th Edition Test Bank Related

Review Burns Pediatric Primary Care 7th Edition Test Bank related questions and content

The nurse is preparing an intravenous infusion of phenytoin (Dilantin) as prescribed by the physician for the client with seizures. Which of the following solutions will the nurse plan to use to dilute this medication?

  • A. Dextrose 5%
  • B. Lactated Ringer's solution
  • C. Normal saline solution
  • D. Dextrose 5% and half-normal saline (0.45%)
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Phenytoin (Dilantin) is known to be incompatible with dextrose solutions (such as dextrose 5% or dextrose 5% and half-normal saline). Therefore, the nurse would plan to use normal saline solution to dilute phenytoin in order to ensure medication effectiveness and prevent any potential adverse reactions. Lactated Ringer's solution is not commonly used for diluting phenytoin as normal saline solution is the preferred choice due to compatibility considerations.