A nurse is preparing to administer digoxin to a pediatric client who has heart failure. Which of the following actions is appropriate?
Instructing the client to eat foods that are low in potassium.
Repeat the dose if the client spits it out.
Measuring apical pulse rate for 30 seconds before administration.
Evaluating the client for nausea, vomiting, and anorexia.
The Correct Answer is C
A. Clients on digoxin should actually have an adequate intake of potassium, as low potassium levels can increase the risk of digoxin toxicity.
B. If a pediatric client spits out digoxin, the dose should not be repeated automatically; instead, the nurse should assess the situation and follow the facility's protocol regarding missed doses.
C. Measuring the apical pulse for one full minute before administering digoxin is critical; if the pulse is below the established threshold (usually <60 bpm for children), the medication should be held and the provider notified.
D. While evaluating for nausea, vomiting, and anorexia is important, it is not an appropriate immediate action before administering the medication. The priority action is to assess the apical pulse.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Bradycardia is not typically expected in toddlers with heart failure; instead, tachycardia (increased heart rate) is more common as the body compensates for decreased cardiac output.
B. Weight loss is generally not a typical finding in toddlers with heart failure; rather, they often experience weight gain due to fluid retention.
C. Orthopnea, or difficulty breathing when lying flat, is a common symptom of heart failure and would be expected in a toddler due to fluid overload affecting respiratory function.
D. Increased urine output is usually not expected in heart failure; rather, fluid retention often leads to decreased urine output as the kidneys respond to the body's fluid balance needs.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. A child whose parents consistently answer questions on their behalf may indicate a lack of autonomy and could be a sign of potential abuse or neglect, as it may suggest the parents are controlling or overly involved.
B. A child who has frequent visitors does not inherently suggest abuse; in fact, it could indicate support and care from family or friends.
C. Frequent use of the call light could indicate a child's need for assistance or comfort but does not directly correlate with abuse.
D. A child with a BMI indicating obesity is not a definitive indicator of abuse; it may relate to dietary habits or lifestyle factors rather than abuse.
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