A client diagnosed with seizures is prescribed phenytoin. Which medication instruction should the practical nurse (PN) reinforce to this client?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D) Brush and floss teeth daily. Phenytoin is known to cause gingival hyperplasia, a condition where the gums become overgrown and inflamed. Therefore, it is crucial for the client to maintain good oral hygiene practices to prevent this side effect. By reinforcing the importance of brushing and flossing daily, the practical nurse can help the client minimize the risk of developing gingival hyperplasia. Option A) Maintain consistent sodium intake is incorrect because phenytoin does not interact with sodium intake. Option B) Use sunscreen when outdoors is incorrect as it is not directly related to the medication phenytoin. Option C) Return for monthly urinalysis is incorrect as phenytoin does not typically require monitoring through urinalysis. In an educational context, it is important for practical nurses to understand the side effects and implications of medications to provide appropriate patient education. By reinforcing specific instructions related to medication use, practical nurses can help clients manage their conditions effectively and prevent potential complications.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct action for the nurse to take when a client reports orange urine after taking rifampin is to inform the client that this change is not harmful. Rifampin is known to cause orange discoloration of urine, which is a harmless side effect. There is no need to notify the health care provider as this is an expected outcome. Monitoring creatinine levels or assessing for nephrotoxicity is unnecessary in this situation, as rifampin does not typically cause kidney damage.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: A heart rate of 60 beats/min for a 6-month-old infant warrants immediate intervention as it falls below the normal range. The normal heart rate for a 6-month-old is 80 to 150 beats/min when awake, and a rate of 70 beats/min while sleeping is considered within normal limits. Bradycardia (heart rate <60 beats/min) in infants can be a sign of digoxin toxicity, necessitating prompt evaluation and intervention to prevent adverse effects.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct instruction for a client taking levodopa-carbidopa for Parkinson's disease is to increase fluid intake to prevent dehydration. Levodopa-carbidopa should be taken with food to reduce gastrointestinal upset and improve absorption. Taking medication at bedtime is not necessary to avoid daytime drowsiness, and it is essential to prevent dehydration due to the medication's side effects.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is B) Weight gain. Methylprednisolone is a corticosteroid medication that can cause fluid retention and increased appetite, leading to weight gain as a common side effect. Option A) Nausea and vomiting are less likely side effects of methylprednisolone compared to weight gain. Option C) Insomnia is not a commonly associated side effect of methylprednisolone. Corticosteroids can actually cause drowsiness in some individuals. Option D) Increased appetite is a possible side effect of methylprednisolone, but the key concern in this case is the weight gain that can result from the combination of increased appetite and fluid retention. Educationally, it is important for nurses to understand the common side effects of medications to effectively monitor and manage their patients. In the case of corticosteroids like methylprednisolone, educating patients about potential side effects such as weight gain can help them make informed decisions and adhere to their treatment plans. Monitoring for side effects also allows for timely intervention to minimize any negative impacts on the patient's health.