Question

The nurse is caring for a client who is taking phenytoin for control of seizures. During data collection, the nurse notes that the client is taking birth control pills. Which information should the nurse provide to the client?

A. Decreased effectiveness of birth control pills
B. Increased risk of seizures
C. Reduced phenytoin levels
D. Enhanced contraceptive effect

Answer 1

The nurse should advise the client that taking phenytoin can decrease the effectiveness of birth control pills due to enhanced drug metabolism.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse should inform the client that phenytoin can lead to a decreased effectiveness of birth control pills. Phenytoin is an enzyme inducer, which means it can increase the metabolism of certain drugs, including hormonal contraceptives such as birth control pills. When a patient takes both phenytoin and birth control pills, the effectiveness of the contraceptive can be compromised, leading to an increased risk of unintended pregnancy.