A nurse is reviewing the laboratory results for a female client who is receiving furosemide and digoxin. Which of the following findings should the nurse recognize increases the client's risk for developing digoxin toxicity?
Potassium 3.1 mEq/L (3.5 to 5 mEq/L)
WBC count 12,000/mm³ (5,000 to 10,000/mm³)
Fasting glucose 150 mg/dL (74 to 106 mg/dL)
Triglycerides 140 mg/dL (35 to 135 mg/dL)
The Correct Answer is A
Rationale:
A. Potassium 3.1 mEq/L (3.5 to 5 mEq/L): Hypokalemia increases the risk of digoxin toxicity because low potassium levels enhance digoxin’s effects on the myocardium, potentially leading to arrhythmias and other toxic effects. Monitoring electrolytes is crucial for clients taking digoxin, especially when on diuretics like furosemide.
B. WBC count 12,000/mm³ (5,000 to 10,000/mm³): An elevated WBC may indicate infection or inflammation but does not directly influence digoxin toxicity. This finding requires assessment but is not a risk factor for digoxin-related complications.
C. Fasting glucose 150 mg/dL (74 to 106 mg/dL): Elevated glucose reflects hyperglycemia but does not affect digoxin levels or toxicity risk. It should be managed separately according to the client’s metabolic needs.
D. Triglycerides 140 mg/dL (35 to 135 mg/dL): Mildly elevated triglycerides are a cardiovascular risk factor but do not directly increase the likelihood of digoxin toxicity. Lipid management is a separate consideration.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","B","C"]
Explanation
Rationale:
A. A client who describes feeling disconnected from those around him following the hurricane: Emotional detachment or a sense of estrangement from others is a hallmark symptom of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
B. A client who describes having persistent feelings of anger about the hurricane: Ongoing irritability, anger, or emotional outbursts several months after a traumatic event may indicate unresolved trauma or hyperarousal, which are common features of PTSD.
C. A client who has frequent nightmares about the hurricane: Recurrent distressing dreams or flashbacks related to the traumatic event are hallmark re-experiencing symptoms of PTSD. Such nightmares suggest the trauma continues to affect the client’s sleep and mental health, justifying referral for further assessment.
D. A client who moved to an apartment located on higher ground than her previous home: Moving to a new location demonstrates adaptive coping and an effort to regain a sense of safety. This behavior does not indicate the presence of PTSD symptoms.
E. A client who expresses a realization that life will not return to the way it was before the hurricane: Acceptance and acknowledgment of change represent a healthy adjustment process. While grief or sadness may accompany this awareness, it reflects adaptation rather than pathological stress or trauma.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Oxygen saturation 97% on room air: Adequate oxygenation is essential for wound healing because oxygen supports collagen synthesis and tissue repair. An oxygen saturation of 97% indicates sufficient oxygen delivery to tissues and does not place the client at risk for delayed healing.
B. Pain level of 1 on a scale of 0 to 10: Minimal pain suggests effective postoperative pain management and allows the client to move, breathe deeply, and participate in recovery activities. Pain at this level does not negatively impact the wound-healing process.
C. BMI 35: Obesity is associated with delayed wound healing due to poor vascularity in adipose tissue, which reduces oxygen and nutrient delivery to the wound. Increased tension on wound edges and a higher risk of infection also contribute to impaired healing in obese clients.
D. Capillary refill time 1 second: A capillary refill of 1 second reflects adequate peripheral perfusion, which supports effective oxygen and nutrient delivery to tissues. Normal circulation facilitates the healing process rather than delaying it.
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