Question

A patient diagnosed with seizures is advised to take phenytoin. About which common side effects of phenytoin should the nurse inform the patient? Select all that apply.

a. Gingival hyperplasia
b. Weight gain
c. Drowsiness
d. Nausea
e. Hair loss

Answer 1

The nurse should inform the patient about common side effects of phenytoin such as gingival hyperplasia, drowsiness, nausea, and hair loss. Weight gain is not typically associated with phenytoin.

Step-by-step explanation:

A patient diagnosed with seizures is advised to take phenytoin. The nurse should inform the patient about the common side effects of phenytoin, which can include:

Gingival hyperplasia

Drowsiness

Nausea

Hair loss

While weight gain can be associated with some medications, it is not commonly linked to phenytoin use. Instead, phenytoin can cause gingival hyperplasia, which is an overgrowth of the gums. Drowsiness and nausea are also frequent side effects. Lastly, some patients may experience hair loss as a side effect.