Certified Medical-Surgical Registered Nurse Practice Exam

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What action should patients taking phenytoin sodium (Dilantin) take to prevent common adverse effects?

Avoid crowds and obtain an annual influenza vaccination
Drink at least 2 L of fluids daily
Eat a potassium-rich, low sodium diet
Practice good dental hygiene and report gum swelling or bleeding

The correct answer is: Practice good dental hygiene and report gum swelling or bleeding

Patients taking phenytoin sodium (Dilantin) should practice good dental hygiene and report any gum swelling or bleeding due to the medication’s potential side effects, particularly gingival hyperplasia. Phenytoin is known to cause an increase in gum tissue growth, leading to swollen and bleeding gums if not properly cared for. Encouraging good oral hygiene can help manage this side effect and reduce the risk of periodontal disease. Patients should also be instructed to keep their dental appointments and communicate any oral changes to their healthcare providers to enable timely intervention. The focus on maintaining oral health is particularly critical for these patients to prevent complications related to gingival overgrowth, which can significantly impact their quality of life and complicate their treatment regimen.