Question

The nurse is caring for a client starting phenytoin (Dilantin). The nurse encourages the client to see the dentist regularly because of what side effect?

Select one:
a. Increased risk for dental caries.
b. Increased risk for gingival hyperplasia.
c. Increased risk for dental abscesses.
d. Increased risk for oral candidiasis.

Answer 1

The nurse encourages the client to see the dentist regularly because of the increased risk for gingival hyperplasia.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse encourages the client to see the dentist regularly because of the increased risk for gingival hyperplasia when starting phenytoin (Dilantin). Phenytion is an antiepileptic drug that can cause overgrowth of the gums, leading to gingival hyperplasia.