A child is on phenytoin (Dilantin). What should the nurse ...

[Bob-Dole]

A child is on phenytoin (Dilantin). What should the nurse encourage?
 
  a. Fluid restriction
  b. Good dental hygiene
  c. A decrease in vitamin D intake
  d. Taking the medication with milk

Question 2

A child develops syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion (SIADH) as a complication to meningitis. What action should be verified before implementing?
 
  a. Forcing fluids
  b. Daily weights with strict input and output (I and O)
  c. Strict monitoring of urine volume and specific gravity
  d. Close observation for signs of increasing cerebral edema

[ansleighelindsey]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: B
Chronic treatment with phenytoin may cause gum hypertrophy. Children taking phenobarbital or phenytoin should receive adequate vitamin D and folic acid because deficiencies of both have been associated with these drugs. The medication should not be taken with milk, and fluids should be encouraged, not restricted.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: A
The treatment of SIADH consists of fluid restriction until serum electrolytes and osmolality return to normal levels. SIADH often occurs in children who have meningitis. Monitoring weights, keeping I and O and specific gravity of urine, and observing for signs of increasing cerebral edema are all part of the nursing care for a child with SIADH.

[Bob-Dole]

Excellent

[juliaf]

Thanks for the timely response, appreciate it