Question

A nurse is reinforcing teaching with a client who has a new prescription for phenytoin. The nurse should recognize that which of the following statements by the client indicates a need for further teaching?

A. "I will notify my provider before taking any other medications." Rationale: Many medication interactions can occur with phenytoin, so the client should contact the provider before taking a new medication.
B. "I have made an appointment to see my dentist next week." Rationale: The client understands that phenytoin can cause an overgrowth of the gum tissue; therefore good oral hygiene and dental monitoring is important.
C. "I will take this medication with meals." Rationale: Phenytoin should be taken with meals to reduce the occurrence of gastrointestinal distress.
D. "I'll be glad when my seizures stop so I can quit taking this medicine." Rationale: The client should not discontinue the phenytoin abruptly, because withdrawal from treatment can cause seizures to resume. Clients taking anticonvulsant medications often require them for life, and phenytoin should not be stopped unless indicated by the provider.

Answer 1

The statement that indicates a need for further education for a client on phenytoin is the intent to stop the medication once seizures cease. Phenytoin should not be stopped abruptly, and withdrawal from the medication must be managed by a healthcare provider.

Step-by-step explanation:

The question pertains to a nursing scenario in which a client has a new prescription for phenytoin, an antiepileptic drug. The nurse is assessing the client's understanding of the medication, and the statement that indicates a need for further teaching is "I'll be glad when my seizures stop so I can quit taking this medicine." It is critical to educate the client that phenytoin should not be discontinued abruptly as it can lead to a recurrence of seizures. Instead, any changes to the medication regimen should be made under the supervision of a healthcare provider. The other options show the client has understood the need to consult the healthcare provider before taking other medications, the importance of dental appointments due to the risk of gum overgrowth, and the recommendation to take the medication with meals to minimize gastrointestinal distress.