A nurse is caring for a child with a congenital heart disease who is prescribed furosemide (Lasix). What is the nurse's priority action before administering this medication?
Assessing the child's respiratory rate.
Checking the child's blood pressure.
Monitoring the child's electrolyte levels.
Determining the child's weight.
The Correct Answer is A
A) The answer is A. Before administering furosemide, it is essential to assess the child's respiratory rate because this medication is a loop diuretic that can lead to fluid and electrolyte imbalances, including hypokalemia. Respiratory rate assessment helps monitor for signs of respiratory distress, especially in clients with heart failure.
B) Incorrect. While monitoring the child's blood pressure is essential, it is not the priority action before administering furosemide. Blood pressure may be affected by the diuretic action of the medication, but respiratory status is more critical to assess initially.
C) Incorrect. Although monitoring electrolyte levels is important when administering furosemide, it is not the priority action. Assessing the child's respiratory rate takes precedence to identify any respiratory distress.
D) Incorrect. Determining the child's weight is relevant in assessing the effectiveness of furosemide therapy. However, it is not the priority action before administering the medication. Respiratory assessment is more critical for immediate intervention.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A) This option is incorrect. Middle-aged adults are not considered a high-risk population for congenital heart diseases. These conditions are primarily present from birth.
B) This option is incorrect. Elderly individuals are not at high risk for congenital heart diseases since these conditions are typically diagnosed at birth or during childhood.
C) This option is incorrect. While prenatal diagnosis of certain congenital heart diseases is possible through fetal echocardiography, pregnant women themselves are not at a higher risk for developing these conditions.
D) Correct answer. Neonates and infants are the highest-risk population for congenital heart diseases because these conditions are typically present from birth and may become apparent shortly after delivery or during infancy.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) The answer is A. Digoxin is commonly prescribed for clients with congenital heart diseases to improve cardiac contractility. It is essential to monitor the heart rate before administration since digoxin can cause bradycardia as a side effect.
B) Incorrect. The statement is not accurate. There is no need to avoid green, leafy vegetables while taking digoxin. However, the client should be informed about potential drug interactions and follow a balanced diet.
C) Incorrect. Clients taking digoxin should be cautious about consuming potassium-rich foods, as hypokalemia (low potassium levels) can potentiate the effects of digoxin and lead to toxicity.
D) Incorrect. Mild nausea can be a common side effect of digoxin, and the client should not discontinue the medication without consulting their healthcare provider. Instead, they should report any adverse effects for proper evaluation.
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