A nurse is preparing to administer phenytoin. Which of the following information should the nurse identify as correct according to the medication label?
A.
The medication is for IV administration.
B.
The total amount available per container is 4 mL.
C.
The nurse should avoid shaking the medication.
D.
The medication should not be stored below 30 C(86 F)
The correct answer is:
C. The nurse should avoid shaking the medication.
Explanation:
- A. The medication is for IV administration: This depends on the specific formulation of phenytoin. Phenytoin can be administered orally or intravenously. The correct route should be confirmed based on the medication label and the prescribed order.
- B. The total amount available per container is 4 mL: This is not a standard or universally applicable fact for phenytoin. The volume per container can vary depending on the manufacturer and the formulation.
- C. The nurse should avoid shaking the medication: Phenytoin oral suspension should not be shaken vigorously because this can affect the stability and uniformity of the medication. Gentle agitation is usually recommended if needed.
- D. The medication should not be stored below 30°C (86°F): Phenytoin typically does not have such a high storage temperature requirement. It is usually stored at room temperature, around 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F).
Correct answer: C