A Patient Has Begun Taking Phenobarbital After Experiencing Several Seizures

A patient has begun taking phenobarbital after experiencing several seizures and is currently receiving 60 mg PO twice daily. After two weeks of therapy,the patient has a serum drug level of 30 mcg/mL and reports feeling drowsy much of the day. What will the nurse tell this patient?

A) "I will contact your provider to discuss changing your dosing to once daily to minimize the drowsiness."
B) "The drug level is low and you may need a higher dose, but taking it three times daily will reduce the drowsiness."
C) "This side effect is expected and should decrease over time. You should avoid driving in the meantime."
D) "Your lab work shows a higher than normal level of the drug and your provider will probably lower your dose."

Correct Answer:

Verified

Show Answer