What serum phenytoin level indicates a therapeutic dose for a client with a seizure disorder?

What serum phenytoin level indicates a therapeutic dose for a client with a seizure disorder?

• A. 12 mcg/mL
• B. 16 mcg/mL
• C. 20 mcg/mL
• D. 25 mcg/mL

Answer: (B)

A serum phenytoin level of 10 to 20 mcg/mL is typically considered to be within the therapeutic range for the management of seizure disorders. Since the question seeks the level that indicates a therapeutic dose, a result of 16 mcg/mL falls comfortably within this range, making it an appropriate choice for effective seizure control. The values other than 16 mcg/mL, namely 12 mcg/mL, 20 mcg/mL, and 25 mcg/mL, each have their own implications. While 12 mcg/mL is slightly below the desired therapeutic range, indicating that the dosage may need adjustment, a level of 20 mcg/mL is at the upper limit and could potentially lead to toxicity in some patients. A level of 25 mcg/mL surpasses the established therapeutic threshold, significantly increasing the risk of adverse effects. Therefore, 16 mcg/mL is the ideal representation of a therapeutic dose for phenytoin in managing seizure disorders.

A serum phenytoin level of 10 to 20 mcg/mL is typically considered to be within the therapeutic range for the management of seizure disorders. Since the question seeks the level that indicates a therapeutic dose, a result of 16 mcg/mL falls comfortably within this range, making it an appropriate choice for effective seizure control.

The values other than 16 mcg/mL, namely 12 mcg/mL, 20 mcg/mL, and 25 mcg/mL, each have their own implications. While 12 mcg/mL is slightly below the desired therapeutic range, indicating that the dosage may need adjustment, a level of 20 mcg/mL is at the upper limit and could potentially lead to toxicity in some patients. A level of 25 mcg/mL surpasses the established therapeutic threshold, significantly increasing the risk of adverse effects. Therefore, 16 mcg/mL is the ideal representation of a therapeutic dose for phenytoin in managing seizure disorders.