What is the appropriate action for a nurse if a client has not adhered to the phenytoin treatment regimen?

Exploring the reasons for non-adherence is essential in nursing practice, particularly with medications like phenytoin, which are critical for managing conditions such as epilepsy. Understanding why a client has not followed the treatment regimen allows the nurse to identify any barriers the client may be facing, whether they are related to education, side effects, financial constraints, or misunderstandings about the importance of adherence.

By engaging in a conversation to explore these reasons, the nurse can develop a more effective and individualized care plan, provide additional education, or offer resources to assist with adherence. This approach supports the client's autonomy and promotes a collaborative relationship between the client and healthcare provider, ultimately leading to better health outcomes.

In contrast, reprimanding the client would likely lead to feelings of shame or resentment, potentially further discouraging them from adhering to treatment. Increasing the medication dosage without understanding the client’s challenges could lead to toxicity or other adverse effects if the client has been experiencing issues with the medication. Discontinuing treatment could be detrimental to the client's health, especially if phenytoin is vital for seizure control, without first addressing the root causes of the non-adherence.