A Patient Has Recently Begun Taking Phenytoin (Dilantin) for a Seizure

question 2

Multiple Choice

A patient has recently begun taking phenytoin (Dilantin) for a seizure disorder. The nurse notes a reddish-brown color to the patient's urine. Which action will the nurse take?

• A) Ask the provider to order a serum drug level.
• B) Reassure the patient that this is a harmless side effect.
• C) Report possible thrombocytopenia to the provider.
• D) Request an order for a urinalysis and creatinine clearance.

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Definitions:

Patient H.M.

A famous neurology patient who underwent experimental brain surgery to treat epilepsy, resulting in long-term anterograde amnesia and contributing significantly to understanding of memory function.

Synapses

The junctions across which nerve impulses pass from one neuron to another, or to a muscle or gland cell.

Neurons

Specialized cells in the nervous system that transmit information to other nerve cells, muscle, or gland cells.

Evolutionary Psychologist

A professional who studies how evolutionary theory informs the understanding of human thoughts, behaviors, and emotions.