A client with a history of seizures is taking phenytoin ...

[TVarnum]

A client with a history of seizures is taking phenytoin (Dilantin). Based on this medication prescription, what is the client at an increased risk for developing?
 
  1. Weight gain
  2. Back pain
  3. Headaches
  4. Constipation

Question 2

A client taking phenytoin (Dilantin) chronically for seizures should be encouraged to maintain good oral hygiene and visit the dentist every 6 months. Why is this such an important area of teaching for this client?
 
  1. Cavities
  2. Builds up tartar on the teeth
  3. Mouth cancers
  4. Gingival hyperplasia

[epscape]

Answer to Question 1

Correct Answer: 4

Rationale 1: Valproic acid (Depakote), not phenytoin, can cause an increase in appetite and weight.
Rationale 2: Headaches and back pain are not common side effects of phenytoin (Dilantin), and do not apply.
Rationale 3: Headaches and back pain are not common side effects of phenytoin (Dilantin), and do not apply.
Rationale 4: Phenytoin's CNS depressant effects decrease GI motility, producing constipation.

Global Rationale: Phenytoin's CNS depressant effects decrease GI motility, producing constipation. Valproic acid (Depakote), not phenytoin, can cause an increase in appetite and weight. Headaches and back pain are not common side effects of phenytoin (Dilantin), and do not apply. Headaches and back pain are not common side effects of phenytoin (Dilantin), and do not apply.

Answer to Question 2

Correct Answer: 4

Rationale 1: Phenytoin causes gingival hyperplasia.
Rationale 2: Phenytoin causes gingival hyperplasia.
Rationale 3: Phenytoin causes gingival hyperplasia.
Rationale 4: Phenytoin causes gingival hyperplasia.

Global Rationale: Phenytoin causes gingival hyperplasia. The medication does not cause cavities, a tarter built-up, or mouth cancerns.

[TVarnum]

TYSM

[Kedrick2014]

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