Comprehensive Nursing Pharmacology Q 288

---

The nurse is giving instructions to a client receiving phenytoin (Dilantin). The nurse concludes that the client has a sufficient knowledge if the client states that:

  

     A. "Wearing a medical alert tag is not required".

     B. "Alcohol is permitted while taking this medication".

     C. "I can take the medicine with milk".

     D. "Have the serum phenytoin level taken before giving the medication".

    

    

Correct Answer: D. “Have the serum phenytoin level taken before giving the medication”.

---

Taking the prescribed daily dosage to keep the blood level of the drug constant and having a sample drawn for serum drug level before taking the morning dose.

---

Option A: Wearing a medical tag allows any medical care provider to know that the client is on seizure medication.

Option B: Alcohol use can increase the blood levels of phenytoin and may increase side effects.

Option C: Taking it with milk will impair the absorption.

---