An adult client having been treated for three months with phenytoin is admitted to the nursing unit with mental status changes, irritability, and agitation
When evaluating the client's laboratory results, which indicates to the nurse the cause of the client's current status?
a. platelet count of 350, 000 cells/mm3. c. phenytoin level of 30 mcg/mL.
b. phenytoin level of 3.5 mcg/mL. d. serum sodium level of 140 mEq/L.
ANS: C
Feedback
A Incorrect: This is a normal platelet count; phenytoin normally does not affect platelets.
B Incorrect: This is less than a therapeutic level, but manifestations should involve seizure activity.
C Correct: These are manifestations of phenytoin toxicity and this is a toxic phenytoin level.
D Incorrect: This is a normal sodium level; phenytoin normally does not affect sodium level.
You might also like to view...
During a health history, the nurse explores the sleeping habits of a 3-year-old boy by interviewing his parents. Which of the following statements from the parents reflects a recommended guideline for promoting healthy sleep in this age group?
A) "Our son sleeps through the night, and we insist that he takes two naps a day." B) "We keep a strict bedtime ritual for our son, which includes a bath and bedtime story." C) "Our son still sleeps in a crib because we feel it is the safest place for him at night." D) "Our son occasionally experiences night walking so we allow him to stay up later when this happens."
Today's society prefers that only safe and proven effective treatments be given to those who are ill. What is the correct sequence for the first four steps of scientific problem- solving?
1 . Identify the problem 2 . Plan action to test suggested solution 3 . Gather information relative to the problem 4 . Formulate tentative solutions and choose preferred solution A) 1, 3, 4, 2 B) 2, 1, 3, 4 C) 3, 1, 2, 4 D) 4, 2, 3, 1
Many medications list side effects that include dry mouth, constipation, and urinary retention. What kind of effects are these?
a. Alpha adrenergic b. Anticholinergic c. Beta adrenergic d. Sympathetic
When planning care for a patient with antisocial personality disorder, which consideration has greatest importance?
a. Addressing the demand for constant attention b. Teaching coping skills related to frustration tolerance c. Identifying behaviors related to well-developed superegos d. Managing the manipulative behaviors resulting from a charming persona