Wongs Essentials of Pediatric Nursing 11th Edition Test Bank Related

Review Wongs Essentials of Pediatric Nursing 11th Edition Test Bank related questions and content

The client is taking phenyton (Dilantin) for seizure control. A sample is drawn to determine the serum drug level, and the nurse reviews the results. Which of the following would indicate a therapeutic serum drug range?

  • A. 5 to 10 mcg/ml.
  • B. 20 to 30 mcg/ml.
  • C. 10 to 20 mcg/ml.
  • D. 30 to 40 mcg/ml.
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The therapeutic serum drug range for phenytoin (Dilantin) is typically considered to be 10 to 20 mcg/ml. However, some sources may cite a broader range of 5 to 20 mcg/ml. Therefore, a serum drug level range of 5 to 10 mcg/ml would fall within the acceptable therapeutic range for phenytoin. Serum levels outside of this range may indicate potential toxicity (above range) or subtherapeutic levels (below range) which could result in inadequate seizure control.