A patient who has been prescribed phenytoin (Dilantin) reports gum swelling around the teeth. What is the nurse's best action?
a. Tell the patient to document this unexpected change by taking a photograph.
b. Instruct the patient to stop the drug and notify the prescriber immediately.
c. Reassure the patient that this is a common and expected side effect.
d. Remind the patient to brush teeth gently and avoid flossing.
C
A common side effect of phenytoin is gingival hyperplasia (excessive growth of gum tissue). The change does not cause physical problems or endanger the teeth. Some patients choose to change drug therapy to avoid this effect, but this is a choice and not a requirement.
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A patient's blood pressure is 168/102 in the left arm and 175/104 in the right arm. According to The Joint National Committee's seventh report, in which BP classification category would this patient be?
a. normal c. stage 1 hypertension b. prehypertension d. stage 2 hypertension
A client is prescribed a new medication. The pharmacy notifies the nurse that the dosage is outside of route prescribing limits. The nurse is unable to reach the prescribing physician about the order. What should the nurse do?
1. Give the medication to the client as prescribed. 2. Withhold the medication. 3. Give one-half of the medication dose prescribed. 4. Administer the medication through the oral route.
A prenatal client states, "The doctor said he might have to cut my cervix so the baby can get out during delivery." Based upon this statement, what structure should the nurse define when teaching about an episiotomy?
1. Mons pubis 2. Labia majora 3. Perineal body 4. Vaginal vestibule
Progesterone is referred to as "the hormone of pregnancy" because it:
a. stimulates lactation. b. increases ciliary action in the fallopian tubes. c. thins the endometrium. d. prevents smooth muscle contraction of the uterus.