A client with congestive heart failure is prescribed digoxin. The nurse should monitor the client for which common side effect of this medication?

A) This choice is correct. Hypertension (high blood pressure) is a significant risk factor for congestive heart failure (CHF). Prolonged hypertension can lead to the heart's increased workload, causing it to weaken over time and eventually leading to CHF. The client's symptoms of fatigue, difficulty breathing, and nocturia (frequent urination at night) are common manifestations of CHF resulting from uncontrolled hypertension.

B) This choice is incorrect because diabetes mellitus, while a risk factor for cardiovascular disease, is not directly associated with the symptoms described by the client. However, diabetes can exacerbate CHF if the client's blood glucose levels are not well-controlled.

C) This choice is incorrect because smoking history is a risk factor for various cardiovascular diseases, but it is not specifically linked to the symptoms reported by the client in this case.

D) This choice is incorrect because a family history of heart disease may increase the client's risk of developing CHF, but it does not directly contribute to the current symptoms the client is experiencing.

A) This choice is incorrect because hypertension is not a common side effect of digoxin. Digoxin is used to treat heart failure and can help control blood pressure in some cases.

B) This choice is incorrect because hyperkalemia (elevated potassium levels) is not a common side effect of digoxin. In fact, digoxin can sometimes cause hypokalemia (low potassium levels) as a side effect.

C) This choice is correct. Bradycardia (slow heart rate) is a common side effect of digoxin. Digoxin works by increasing the force of the heart's contractions and can slow down the heart rate. Clients taking digoxin should have their heart rate monitored regularly, and the healthcare provider should be notified if the heart rate is below the prescribed parameters.

D) This choice is incorrect because respiratory alkalosis is not a common side effect of digoxin. Digoxin does not directly affect the respiratory system.

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