Question

The nurse has provided education for a client prescribed ethosuximide​ (Zarontin). For which information offered by the client should the nurse notify the healthcare​ provider? select all that apply.

a. "Did I mention that I used to take phenobarbital for my​ seizures?"
b. "I forgot to tell the doctor that I am allergic to​ penicillin."
c. "I take ginkgo to help improve my​ memory."
d. "My husband and I plan to have a baby in a couple of​ years."
e. "My husband and I are leading a​ 20-mile bicycle tour next weekend for the company we have just​ started."

Answer 1

The nurse should notify the healthcare provider about the client's prior use of phenobarbital, current use of ginkgo, and plans to have a baby, as these factors can influence ethosuximide therapy.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse should notify the healthcare provider of several pieces of information provided by the client who has been prescribed ethosuximide (Zarontin), as some may have implications for the client's treatment and safety. Specifically, the healthcare provider should be informed about:

• The client's previous use of phenobarbital for seizures, as this could influence the current medication strategy and potential drug interactions.
• The client's use of ginkgo, an herbal supplement, because ginkgo can interact with medications and may have an impact on seizure control or drug metabolism.
• Client's plan to have a baby in a few years, as ethosuximide can have potential teratogenic effects, meaning it might affect fetal development. Pre-conception counseling and a potential change in medication may be necessary.

However, the client's allergy to penicillin and upcoming participation in a bicycle tour are not directly related to the use of ethosuximide and thus would not likely require notification of the healthcare provider in the context of ethosuximide education.