Question

A client with a subarachnoid hemorrhage is prescribed a 1,000-mg loading dose of Dilantin IV. Which consideration is most important when administering this dose?

A. Therapeutic drug levels should be maintained between 20 to 30 mg/ml.
B. Rapid Dilantin administration can cause cardiac arrhythmias.
C. Dilantin should be mixed in dextrose in water before administration.
D. Dilantin should be administered through an IV catheter in the client's hand.

Answer 1

The most important consideration when administering a loading dose of Dilantin IV is maintaining therapeutic drug levels between 20 to 30 mg/ml.

Step-by-step explanation:

The most important consideration when administering a 1,000-mg loading dose of Dilantin IV to a client with a subarachnoid hemorrhage is therapeutic drug levels.

The correct answer is A.

Therapeutic drug levels should be maintained between 20 to 30 mg/ml.

This is because Dilantin is a highly potent anticonvulsant drug, and maintaining the appropriate drug levels is crucial for effective treatment.