A nurse is caring for a newly admitted patient who will receive Digoxin to treat cardiac dysrhythmia.
The patient takes hydrochlorothiazide and reports regular use of OTC laxatives.
Before administering the first dose of Digoxin, the nurse will review the patient’s electrolyte levels with careful attention to which electrolytes?

Choice A rationale

Checking vitamin K levels doesn't directly monitor warfarin's effect.

Choice B rationale

PTT and aPTT assess heparin, not warfarin.

Choice C rationale

INR specifically measures warfarin's effectiveness and safety.

Choice D rationale

Platelet levels don't monitor the anticoagulant effect of warfarin.

Choice A rationale

Asking the patient what time of day the medication is taken can help identify if taking it at a different time might alleviate sleep disturbances. SSRIs like sertraline can cause insomnia if taken later in the day.

Choice B rationale

Recommending a weekly dosage is inappropriate and could potentially disrupt the therapeutic effect. SSRIs should be taken daily, as prescribed.

Choice C rationale

Counseling the patient to take the medication at bedtime could worsen sleep disturbances, as sertraline may cause insomnia in some individuals. Timing should be adjusted based on patient response.

Choice D rationale

Suggesting a lower dose without consulting the provider may not address the issue effectively and could reduce the efficacy of the medication. Dosage adjustments should be made based on clinical assessment and provider recommendation.