Pharmacology Proctored ATI Practice Exam

What should a nurse plan to do after administering phenytoin IV?

1. Administer an antacid

2. Administer a saline solution

3. Apply a cold compress

4. Monitor for hypotension

The correct answer is: Administer a saline solution

After administering phenytoin IV, a nurse should plan to administer a saline solution. Phenytoin is an anti-seizure medication that can cause local irritation and potential tissue damage if it leaks from the vein. A saline solution helps to dilute the medication and reduce the risk of tissue injury. Administering an antacid, applying a cold compress, or monitoring for hypotension are not necessary or recommended after administering phenytoin IV. Administering an antacid would not prevent tissue damage from the medication, applying a cold compress would not address the potential tissue damage, and monitoring for hypotension is not associated with phenytoin administration. Therefore, administering a saline solution is the most appropriate action to take after administering phenytoin IV.