The nurse is giving instructions to a client receiving phenytoin (Dilantin). The nurse concludes that the client has a sufficient knowledge if the client states that:

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Monitoring the serum phenytoin level is crucial when taking phenytoin (Dilantin) because phenytoin has a narrow therapeutic range. Having regular blood tests to check the drug levels ensures that the medication is within the effective range and helps prevent toxicity or ineffectiveness. This also allows healthcare providers to adjust the dosage if needed, based on the serum level results. It is an essential part of managing phenytoin therapy and ensuring its effectiveness while minimizing the risk of adverse reactions.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In the context of mild hyponatremia, which is a condition where there is a lower-than-normal concentration of sodium in the blood, treatment often involves administering intravenous normal saline infusion administered slowly. This helps to incrementally increase sodium levels in the blood while also ensuring proper hydration. Normal saline is preferred over other fluid solutions as it helps to maintain a stable electrolyte balance. In cases of severe hyponatremia or symptoms like seizures, more aggressive treatment may be necessary, but for mild cases like that described in the scenario, normal saline infusion is typically the appropriate choice.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct technique when administering topical nitroglycerin ointment is to remove the old ointment before applying the new ointment. This is to prevent any potential overdosing of the medication, as nitroglycerin can be rapidly absorbed through the skin. It is important to ensure that the previous application is fully removed before applying a new dose to prevent any accumulation of the medication.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Loop diuretics can cause excessive potassium excretion in the urine, leading to low potassium levels in the body (hypokalemia). Some manifestations of potassium deficiency (hypokalemia) include muscle weakness, which can range from mild to severe, and anorexia (loss of appetite). Other symptoms of hypokalemia may include fatigue, weakness, constipation, and even cardiac arrhythmias. It is important for healthcare providers to monitor patients on loop diuretics for signs of potassium deficiency to prevent complications.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Patients with peptic ulcers should stop taking NSAIDs. NSAIDs, which stands for nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, can worsen peptic ulcers by increasing the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding and ulcer formation. NSAIDs work by inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis, which can lead to a decrease in the protective mucus production in the stomach lining, allowing gastric acid to damage the mucosa and exacerbate peptic ulcers. Therefore, it is crucial for patients with peptic ulcers to avoid NSAIDs to prevent further damage to the gastrointestinal tract.