1. The child with seizure disorder is being treated with Dilantin

(phenytoin). Which of the following statements by the patient’s

mother

indicates to the nurse that the patient is experiencing a side effect of

Dilantin therapy?

A. “She is very irritable lately.”

B. “She sleeps quite a bit of the time.”

C. “Her gums look too big for her

teeth.”

D. “She has gained about 10 pounds in the last 6 months.”

Answer C: Hyperplasia of the gums is associated with Dilantin therapy.

Answer A is not related to the therapy; answer B is a side effect, and answer

D is not related to the question.

2. A 5-year-old is admitted to the unit following a tonsillectomy. Which

of the following would indicate a complication of the surgery?

A. Decreased appetite

B. A low-grade fever

C. Chest congestion

D. Constant swallowing

Answer D: A complication of a tonsillectomy is bleeding, and constant

swallowing may indicate bleeding. Decreased appetite is expected after a

tonsillectomy, as is a low-grade temperature; thus, answers A and B are

incorrect. In answer C, chest congestion is not normal but is not associated

with the tonsillectomy.

3. A 6-year-old with cerebral palsy functions at the level of an 18-monthold. Which finding would

support that assessment?

A. She dresses herself