Phenytoin - Anti-seizure Medication Mnemonic

Introduction

• Phenytoin: An anti-seizure medication with a narrow therapeutic window.
• High risk for toxicity: Critical for NCLEX.
• Mnemonic anchor: Phone Tower (Phenytoin sounds like Phone Tower).
• Generic name: Phenytoin (NCLEX uses this over trade name).

Mechanism of Action

• Anti-shake shocks: Stabilizes the phone tower.
  • Represents how phenytoin treats seizures (prevents shaking).
• Used for: Tonic-clonic and partial seizures.
• Function: Inhibits sodium ion flow, stops repetitive neuron firing causing seizures.

Therapeutic Range

• Narrow range: 10-20 mg/mL.
• Below range: Ineffective, risk of seizures.
• Above range: Risk of toxicity.

Toxicity and Side Effects

• Key symptoms of toxicity:
  • Ataxia: Impaired balance/coordination (symbolized by boy falling).
  • Slurred speech: Difficulty in speaking clearly (symbolized by the boy's shouts).
  • Nystagmus: Uncontrolled eye movements (symbolized by girl's eyes moving side to side).
• Action: Report these symptoms immediately, hold next dose, verify blood work.

Non-Toxic Side Effect

• Gingival Hyperplasia: Overgrowth of gum tissue (symbolized by the girl's big bubble gum).
  • Manageable with good oral hygiene and dentist visits.
  • Not a reason to stop the medication.

Summary Recap

• Phenytoin: Anti-convulsant for treating seizures.
• Therapeutic range: 10-20 micrograms/mL.
• Toxicity symptoms: Ataxia, slurred speech, nystagmus.
• Report and manage: Hold dose and check blood levels.
• Common side effect: Gingival hyperplasia (good oral care required).

Conclusion

• Key visual mnemonic: Keep kids off the phone tower (representing precautions with phenytoin).
• Additional Resources: Check additional materials for more detailed review.