A patient diagnosed with a brain tumor is receiving phenytoin. The patient's partner questions the use of the drug, since there is no history of a seizure disorder. What response should the nurse provide to best address the partner's concern?
Explanation & Rationale
Choice A reason: Brain tumors can increase intracranial pressure and irritate surrounding brain tissue, which may provoke seizures even in patients without a prior history of epilepsy. Phenytoin is used prophylactically to prevent seizures in such cases, especially during the perioperative period or when tumor growth is rapid. Choice B reason: Phenytoin is not a sedative. It is an antiepileptic drug used to prevent and control seizures. Sedation is not its primary function, and using it for that purpose would be inappropriate. Choice C reason: Febrile seizures typically occur in children and are not associated with brain tumors in adults. This statement is inaccurate and misleading in the context of adult neuro-oncology. Choice D reason: Not all patients with brain tumors experience seizures. The risk depends on tumor location, size, and growth rate. Therefore, this statement is incorrect and overly generalized.