A nurse is preparing to administer phenytoin oral suspension to a client. Which of the following actions should the nurse take? (Refer to the medication label below.)

A. Discard the suspension 14 days after opening the bottle: The typical shelf life of phenytoin oral suspension after opening is much longer than 14 days, and discarding it within 14 days is unnecessary unless specified by the manufacturer. The nurse should refer to the medication label for the correct expiration time after opening, as it may vary based on the specific formulation. A typical time frame is around 30 days or as directed by the manufacturer, not 14 days. B. Dilute the suspension with 38 mL water prior to initial use: Phenytoin oral suspension does not need to be diluted with water prior to administration. The medication should be administered in its current form to ensure proper dosing. Diluting the suspension could affect the drug’s effectiveness and result in improper dosing, which could compromise treatment. C. Store the suspension in the refrigerator: Phenytoin oral suspension should not be stored in the refrigerator unless specifically instructed by the manufacturer. Storing it in the refrigerator could alter the consistency or effectiveness of the medication. It is typically recommended to store it at room temperature in a cool, dry place, away from direct light and heat. Always refer to the manufacturer’s storage guidelines. D. Shake the suspension well before each administration: Phenytoin oral suspension should be shaken well before each use to ensure that the medication is evenly distributed. The active ingredient can settle at the bottom of the bottle, and shaking helps to mix it back into the liquid to ensure an accurate dose. This is a critical step to achieve proper therapeutic levels and prevent dosing errors.