What should the nurse teach parents when the child is taking phenytoin (Dilantin)to control seizures?
A) The child should use a soft toothbrush and floss the teeth after every meal.
B) The child will require monitoring of renal function while taking this medication.
C) Dilantin should be taken with food because it causes gastrointestinal distress.
D) The medication can be stopped when the child has been seizure free for 1 month.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A side effect of Dilantin is gingival hyperplasia.Good oral hygiene will minimize this adverse effect.The child should have liver function studies because this anticonvulsant may cause hepatic dysfunction,not renal dysfunction.Dilantin has not been found to cause gastrointestinal upset.The medication can be taken without food.Anticonvulsants should never be stopped suddenly or without consulting the physician.Such action could result in seizure activity.

What Should the Nurse Teach Parents When the Child Is