A nurse in a provider's office is reviewing the laboratory results of four clients who take digoxin.
Which of the following clients is at risk for developing digoxin toxicity?
A client who takes glyburide for type 2 diabetes mellitus.
A client who takes furosemide for hypertension.
A client who takes cimetidine to reduce gastric acid secretion.
A client who takes azelastine for allergic rhinitis.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale:
A client who takes glyburide for type 2 diabetes mellitus is not at significant risk for developing digoxin toxicity. Glyburide is an antidiabetic medication and does not interact directly with digoxin.
Choice B rationale: Furosemide, a loop diuretic, can cause electrolyte imbalances such as hypokalemia (normal potassium levels: 3.5 to 5.0 mEq/L) and hypomagnesemia (normal magnesium levels: 1.7 to 2.2 mg/dL). These imbalances increase the sensitivity to digoxin and the risk of toxicity. Digoxin toxicity is associated with symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and arrhythmias. Furosemide's impact on electrolytes makes it a significant risk factor for digoxin toxicity.
Choice C rationale: Cimetidine, a histamine H2 receptor antagonist, can inhibit the metabolism of certain drugs by affecting liver enzymes. However, it does not significantly alter digoxin levels or increase the risk of toxicity. Normal liver enzyme levels include ALT (7 to 56 U/L) and AST (10 to 40 U/L). While cimetidine may interact with other medications, its effect on digoxin is minimal.
Choice D rationale:
A client who takes azelastine for allergic rhinitis is not at significant risk for developing digoxin toxicity. Azelastine is an antihistamine and does not interact directly with digoxin.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Facial flushing. Facial flushing is not typically associated with atelectasis. Atelectasis is the collapse of a portion of the lung, which can lead to decreased oxygenation and respiratory distress but does not directly cause facial flushing. Flushing may be related to other factors such as fever or allergic reactions.
Choice B rationale:
Dry cough. A dry cough can be a common symptom of atelectasis. As the lung tissue collapses and airways become obstructed, it can lead to irritation and a dry, non-productive cough as the body attempts to clear the airway. So, a dry cough is an expected finding in a client with atelectasis.
Choice C rationale:
Decreasing respiratory rate. A decreasing respiratory rate is not typically associated with atelectasis. In fact, atelectasis often leads to an increased respiratory rate as the body tries to compensate for the reduced oxygen exchange. The patient may experience tachypnea (rapid breathing) as a result.
Choice D rationale:
Increasing dyspnea. Increasing dyspnea is a common and expected finding in a client with atelectasis. As lung tissue collapses and oxygen exchange is compromised, the patient will likely experience worsening shortness of breath. This is a concerning symptom and should be closely monitored, as it may indicate a need for intervention to improve lung expansion and oxygenation.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
The correct answer is C.
Choice A: Oxygen saturation of 95% The normal oxygen saturation level is between 95% and 100%. An oxygen saturation of 95% is within the normal range, so the nurse would not need to withhold furosemide for this reason.
Choice B: Serum sodium level of 140 mEq/L The normal serum sodium levels range from 135 to 145 mEq/L. A serum sodium level of 140 mEq/L is within the normal range, so the nurse would not need to withhold furosemide for this reason.
Choice C: Blood pressure of 80/40 mm Hg Furosemide is a potent diuretic that can lead to a significant depletion of electrolytes, which may lead to side effects such as muscle cramps and an irregular heartbeat. Low blood pressure (hypotension) is a potential side effect of furosemide. Normal blood pressure for adults is typically around 120/80 mm Hg. A blood pressure reading of 80/40 mm Hg is considerably lower than the normal range, indicating hypotension.
Choice D: Serum potassium level of 4.8 mEq/L The normal serum potassium levels range from 3.6 to 5.2 mEq/L. A serum potassium level of 4.8 mEq/L is within the normal range, so the nurse would not need to withhold furosemide for this reason.

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