Nursing Process Test Bank Related

Review Nursing Process Test Bank related questions and content

The nurse has given medication instruction to the client receiving phenyton (Dilantin). The nurse determines that the client has an adequate understanding if the client states that:

  • A. “Alcohol is not contraindicated while taking this medication.”
  • B. “Good oral hygiene is needed, including brushing and flossing.”
  • C. “The medication dose may be self-adjusted depending on side effects.”
  • D. “The morning dose of the medication should be taken before a serum drug level is drawn.”
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: "Good oral hygiene is needed, including brushing and flossing." This is because phenytoin (Dilantin) can cause gingival hyperplasia, a side effect that leads to overgrowth of gum tissue. Good oral hygiene practices, such as regular brushing and flossing, can help prevent or minimize this side effect.

Choice A is incorrect because alcohol is contraindicated while taking phenytoin as it can increase the risk of side effects and decrease the effectiveness of the medication.

Choice C is incorrect because medication doses should never be self-adjusted without consulting a healthcare provider, as this can lead to ineffective treatment or potential harm.

Choice D is incorrect because the timing of the morning dose in relation to drawing a serum drug level is not relevant to the client's understanding of medication instructions and does not address the specific side effect of gingival hyperplasia associated with phenytoin.