The client who is prescribed valproic acid (Depakote) for seizure control would like to have a baby. Which statements should the nurse include in a discussion with this client?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Rationale 1: Since there are many side effects to antiepileptic medications, single drug therapy is the goal for pregnant clients.
Rationale 2: Women who have epilepsy have a reduced fertility rate, and some do not ovulate.
Rationale 3: Valproic acid (Depakote) is pregnancy category D.
Rationale 4: Folic acid supplementation is important for all women who are, or wish to become, pregnant. This is especially true of women who are epileptic because many antiepileptic medications cause folic acid deficiency.
Rationale 5: Women who are epileptic can and do conceive and deliver healthy babies. The nurse should not discourage this client, but should provide information to the client and then support the client's choice.

The Client Who Is Prescribed Valproic Acid (Depakote) for Seizure