Based on a client’s serum digoxin level, the client is diagnosed with digoxin toxicity. Which action should the nurse expect to implement?
Administer potassium to stabilize the heart rate.
Begin cardioversion to stabilize heart rhythm.
Check acid-base and electrolyte values.
Give digoxin by another route to slow absorption.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A reason: Administering potassium is not the primary action for treating digoxin toxicity. While hypokalemia can exacerbate digoxin toxicity, the initial step is to assess and stabilize the patient’s overall condition, including acid-base and electrolyte balance. Potassium administration may be considered if hypokalemia is present, but it is not the first-line treatment.
Choice B reason: Cardioversion is not typically used to treat digoxin toxicity. Digoxin toxicity can cause various arrhythmias, but the treatment focuses on stabilizing the patient and addressing the toxicity itself2. Cardioversion may be considered in life-threatening arrhythmias, but it is not the primary intervention.
Choice C reason: Checking acid-base and electrolyte values is crucial in managing digoxin toxicity. Digoxin toxicity can lead to electrolyte imbalances, particularly hyperkalemia, which can be life-threatening. Assessing and correcting these imbalances is essential for stabilizing the patient and preventing further complications.
Choice D reason: Giving digoxin by another route to slow absorption is not an appropriate action. The primary treatment for digoxin toxicity involves stopping the medication and administering digoxin-specific antibody fragments (Fab) if necessary. These antibodies bind to digoxin, neutralizing its effects and allowing for its excretion.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Bupropion is known to cause side effects such as insomnia and weight loss. These side effects are due to its stimulant properties, which can interfere with sleep patterns and suppress appetite1. Patients should be informed about these potential side effects so they can monitor their symptoms and seek medical advice if necessary.
Choice B reason: While changes in taste can occur with some medications, it is not a common side effect of bupropion. Therefore, it is not necessary to specifically instruct patients to notify their healthcare provider about changes in taste when taking bupropion.
Choice C reason: There is no specific requirement to administer bupropion with 8 ounces of water. Bupropion can be taken with or without food, and the amount of water consumed with the medication does not impact its effectiveness.
Choice D reason: Consuming tyramine-free foods is crucial for patients taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) due to the risk of hypertensive crisis. However, bupropion is not an MAOI, so this dietary restriction is not applicable.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Administering a PRN dose of an antianxiety drug might seem like a reasonable action if the tremors are related to anxiety. However, without a clear indication that anxiety is the cause of the tremors, this action could mask the underlying issue and delay appropriate treatment. It is essential to identify the root cause of the tremors before administering any medication.
Choice B reason:
Obtaining orthostatic blood pressure readings is a useful assessment for determining if the client has orthostatic hypotension, which can cause dizziness and fainting. However, this action is not directly related to the complaint of hand tremors. While it is a good practice to monitor vital signs, it does not address the immediate concern of tremors caused by pregabalin.
Choice C reason:
Notifying the healthcare provider is the most appropriate action. Tremors can be a side effect of pregabalin12. The healthcare provider needs to be informed to evaluate the severity of the side effect and decide whether to adjust the medication dosage or switch to an alternative treatment. This ensures that the client receives the most appropriate care and avoids potential complications.
Choice D reason:
Collecting a capillary glucose level is important for clients with diabetes or those at risk of hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia. However, there is no indication in the scenario that the client has diabetes or that blood glucose levels are related to the tremors. Therefore, this action is not directly relevant to the client’s current complaint.
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