Phenytoin (Dilantin) has a narrow therapeutic index. The nurse recognizes that this characteristic indicates which of these?
a. The safe and the toxic plasma levels of the drug are very close to each other.
b. The phenytoin has a low chance of being effective.
c. There is no difference between safe and toxic plasma levels.
d. A very small dosage can result in the desired therapeutic effect.
ANS: A
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During a physical assessment, the nurse notes a patient has a lack of appetite resulting in an inability to eat. The nurse should document that the patient is experiencing:
a. dyspnea. b. asthenia. c. anorexia. d. ecchymosis.
A 9-year-old patient who is hospitalized for bowel surgery appears very frightened. To appear less threatening to the child, which action should the nurse take?
a. Stand over the bed when talking to the patient. b. Sit in a chair next to the bed when talking to the patient. c. Maintain constant eye contact with the patient at all times. d. Stay within 12 inches of the patient when talking to the patient.
During the health history, the mother of a 4-month-old child tells the nurse she is concerned that her baby is not doing what he should be at this age. What is the nurse's best response?
A) "I'll be able to tell you more after I do his physical." B) "Fill out the questionnaire and then I can let you know." C) "Tell me what concerns you." D) "All mothers worry about their babies. I'm sure he's doing well."
The nurse has arrived on the scene of an accident. The victim is conscious and has a large bleeding laceration on his thigh. The nurse uses an available towel to provide compression to the wound. What action should the nurse perform next?
a. Turn the patient to his left side. b. Elevate the patient's affected leg. c. Bend the affected leg at the knee. d. Use the patient's belt as a tourniquet.