A client with a history of seizures is taking phenytoin (Dilantin). Based on this medication prescription, what are adverse effects the nurse should teach the client?

Question

1. Weight gain, back pain, and headaches
2. Hypertension, bradycardia, and vomiting
3. Confusion, slurred speech, and insomnia
4. Constipation, rashes, and seizures

Answer 1

3

Rationale 1:Headache is considered a severe CNS reaction to phenytoin (Dilantin). Weight gain and back pain are not associated with phenytoin (Dilantin) use.
Rationale 2:Phenytoin may cause dysrhythmias such as bradycardia or ventricular fibrillation, severe hypotension, and hyperglycemia.
Rationale 3:Severe CNS reactions of phenytoin (Dilantin) include headache, nystagmus, ataxia, confusion, slurred speech, paradoxical nervousness, twitching, and insomnia.
Rationale 4: Phenytoin does not cause constipation, rashes, or seizures.

Global Rationale: Phenytoin may cause dysrhythmias such as bradycardia or ventricular fibrillation, severe hypotension, and hyperglycemia. Severe CNS reactions include headache, nystagmus, ataxia, confusion, slurred speech, paradoxical nervousness, twitching, and insomnia.