A Patient Who Has Been Taking Phenobarbital for Epilepsy Begins

question 15

Multiple Choice

A patient who has been taking phenobarbital for epilepsy begins taking valproic acid [Depakote] as adjunct therapy. The nurse notes that the patient is very drowsy. What will the nurse do?

• A) Explain to the patient that tolerance to sedation eventually will develop.
• B) Notify the prescriber, and request an order to reduce the dose of phenobarbital.
• C) Notify the prescriber of the need to increase the dose of valproic acid.
• D) Request an order for liver function tests to monitor for hepatotoxicity.

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Definitions:

Expectations

Anticipations or beliefs about what may happen in the future or how someone should behave, often based on norms, obligations, or social pressures.

SAT

A standardized test widely used for college admissions in the United States, assessing mathematical, reading, and writing skills.

Academic Ability

The capability of a person to perform well in academic settings, measured through various means such as tests and GPA.

Social Environment

Refers to the immediate physical and social setting in which people live or in which something happens or develops. It includes the culture that the individual was educated or lives in, and the people and institutions with whom they interact.