What is a guideline for the nurse when administering phenytoin ...

[ARLKQ]

What is a guideline for the nurse when administering phenytoin (Dilantin) intravenously?
 
  a. Deliver rapidly.
  b. Monitor for signs of tachycardia.
  c. Assess for hypertensive crisis.
  d. Administer without mixing with other medications.

Question 2

What is the drug of choice when treating a generalized tonic-clonic seizure?
 
  a. Diazepam (Valium)
  b. Haloperidol (Haldol)
  c. Valproic acid (Depakene)
  d. Risperidone (Risperdal)

[Chocorrol77]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: D
Phenytoin should not be mixed in the same syringe with other medications or added to other intravenous (IV) solutions because a precipitate will form. Phenytoin should be administered slowly at a rate of 25 to 50 mg/min. Patients should be monitored with an ECG closely for bradycardia. Patients should be monitored for hypotension.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: C
Anticonvulsant therapy should start with the use of a single agent selected from a group of first-line agents based on the type of seizure. Valproic acid is indicated for generalized tonic-clonic seizures. Diazepam is not the drug of choice for treatment of tonic-clonic seizures. Haloperidol is an antipsychotic medication. Risperidone is an antipsychotic agent.

[ARLKQ]

Thanks for the timely response, appreciate it

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