Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 82%
Simulated
A nurse is assessing a client after administering phenytoin IV bolus for a seizure. Which of the following findings should the nurse identify as an adverse effect of this medication?
Correct answer
B
Rationale
The correct answer is B: Hypotension. Phenytoin can cause hypotension as an adverse effect due to its vasodilatory properties. When administered rapidly as an IV bolus, it can lead to a sudden drop in blood pressure. Red man syndrome (A) is associated with vancomycin, not phenytoin. Hypoglycemia (C) is not a common adverse effect of phenytoin. Bradycardia (D) is not typically seen with phenytoin; instead, it can cause tachycardia.