A patient who has heart failure recently started taking digoxin in addition to furosemide and captopril. Which finding by the home health nurse is a priority to communicate to the health care provider?.
Weight increase from 120 pounds to 122 pounds over 3 days.
Serum potassium level 3.0 mEq/L after 1 week of therapy.
Palpable liver edge 2 cm below the ribs on the right side.
Presence of 1+ to 2+ edema in the feet and ankles.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale:
A weight increase from 120 pounds to 122 pounds over 3 days is within the normal fluctuation range.
Choice B rationale:
A serum potassium level of 3.0 mEq/L after 1 week of therapy is concerning because it’s below the normal range (3.5-5.0 mEq/L)171819. This could indicate hypokalemia, which can cause serious complications if left untreated.
Choice C rationale:
A palpable liver edge 2 cm below the ribs on the right side could suggest an abnormality such as an enlarged liver.
Choice D rationale:
The presence of 1+ to 2+ edema in the feet and ankles could indicate conditions like heart failure or venous insufficiency.
So, the correct answer is Choice B, after analyzing all choices.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Digoxin is used to treat heart failure and atrial fibrillation, but it doesn’t directly address the fluid accumulation in the lungs caused by pulmonary edema.
Choice B rationale:
Captopril, an ACE inhibitor, can help reduce fluid buildup and is typically beneficial for patients with pulmonary edema.
Choice C rationale:
Furosemide is a diuretic that helps remove excess fluid from the body, making it a key medication for treating pulmonary edema.
Choice D rationale:
Carvedilol, a beta blocker, can be used to treat heart failure and hypertension, conditions that can contribute to pulmonary edema.
So, the correct answer is A, after analyzing all choices.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
This is correct. Standing still for prolonged periods can cause blood to pool in the legs, increasing blood pressure.
Choice B rationale:
This is also correct. Stopping the medication abruptly can cause a rebound increase in blood pressure.
Choice C rationale:
This is incorrect. Furosemide is a diuretic that can cause the body to lose potassium, so it’s important to consume potassium-rich foods.
Choice D rationale:
This is correct. Furosemide can cause orthostatic hypotension, a form of low blood pressure that happens when you stand up from sitting or lying down.
So, the correct answer is Choice C, after analyzing all choices.
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