Question

A patient is to begin taking a hydantoin, phenytoin (Dilantin) for seizures. The patient tells the nurse that she is taking oral contraceptives. What instructions should the nurse include in the teaching?

Select one:
a. She should stop taking oral contraceptives, because they reduce the effectiveness of phenytoin.
b. She should consider a different form of birth control while taking phenytoin.
c. She should remain on oral contraceptives, because phenytoin causes birth defects.
d. She may need to increase her dose of phenytoin while taking oral contraceptives.

Answer 1

Phenytoin induces hepatic enzymes, potentially reducing oral contraceptives' efficacy. Hence, the patient should explore alternative birth control methods not affected by enzyme-inducing medications. Patient education on this interaction is crucial for informed decision-making and reproductive health,So, the correct option is b.

Step-by-step explanation:

Phenytoin, an antiepileptic drug, can induce hepatic enzymes, potentially leading to the increased metabolism of oral contraceptives (OCs) and reducing their effectiveness. This interaction may compromise the contraceptive efficacy of OCs.

Therefore, it is advisable for the patient to consider an alternative form of birth control that is not affected by enzyme-inducing medications like phenytoin. Options such as barrier methods (e.g., condoms), intrauterine devices (IUDs), or progestin-only contraceptives may be more suitable in this situation.

It's crucial for the nurse to convey this information to the patient to prevent unintended pregnancies and ensure the patient makes informed decisions about her reproductive health.

Additionally, the nurse should emphasize the importance of consulting with her healthcare provider to discuss alternative contraceptive options and address any concerns or questions she may have about the interaction between phenytoin and oral contraceptives. Patient education plays a key role in promoting medication adherence and optimizing therapeutic outcomes,Thus, the correct option is b.