Final answer:
The statement by the patient that they should brush and floss their teeth regularly indicates an understanding of medication teaching for phenytoin (Dilantin), as proper oral hygiene is necessary due to potential gum overgrowth.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question pertains to medication education for a patient who will begin taking the anticonvulsant hydantoin, specifically phenytoin (Dilantin), for seizure control. Phenytoin requires careful monitoring, and one of the known side effects is gum hypertrophy (overgrowth of the gums), which can be managed with proper oral hygiene. The correct statement that indicates the patient understands the teaching is 'I should brush and floss my teeth regularly.'
Contrary to the patient's understanding expressed in other provided options, alcohol should be avoided while taking phenytoin due to its potential to increase the central nervous system side effects and risk of liver damage. Regular laboratory checks are necessary to monitor phenytoin levels and ensure they are within the therapeutic range to avoid toxicity or subtherapeutic dosing. Phenytoin can be taken with or without food, but consistent intake is important to avoid fluctuations in drug absorption.