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:
Those with allergies to chamomile, ragweed, or yarrow should not take feverfew because feverfew belongs to the Asteraceae/Compositae family, which includes these plants. Individuals allergic to these plants may experience allergic reactions to feverfew, such as skin rashes, swelling, and difficulty breathing. It is crucial to avoid feverfew in these cases to prevent severe allergic reactions.
Choice B reason:
Feverfew may interact with aspirin or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), but this is not the most critical information compared to potential allergic reactions. Feverfew can inhibit platelet aggregation, which may increase the risk of bleeding when taken with NSAIDs or aspirin. However, the primary concern remains the potential for severe allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
Choice C reason:
Abdominal pain, gas, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea can occur when taking feverfew, but these side effects are generally mild and manageable. While it is important to inform clients about possible gastrointestinal side effects, the risk of allergic reactions in individuals sensitive to chamomile, ragweed, or yarrow is more critical.
Choice D reason:
Increased anxiety and nervousness have been reported by those taking feverfew, but these side effects are less common and typically not severe. The primary concern should be the potential for allergic reactions, which can be life-threatening.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is not a primary concern when administering sumatriptan succinate. While IBS can cause significant discomfort and affect the quality of life, it does not pose a direct contraindication to the use of sumatriptan. Sumatriptan is primarily metabolized in the liver and excreted by the kidneys, and its use is not significantly impacted by gastrointestinal conditions like IBS1.
Choice B reason:
Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a critical consideration before administering sumatriptan succinate. Sumatriptan is a selective serotonin receptor agonist that causes vasoconstriction of cranial blood vessels to relieve migraine symptoms. However, it can also cause vasoconstriction in coronary arteries, which can be dangerous for clients with CAD. This can lead to serious cardiovascular events such as myocardial infarction or angina. Therefore, it is essential to assess for any history of CAD or other significant cardiovascular conditions before administering this medication.

Choice C reason:
Seasonal allergic rhinitis is not a significant concern when administering sumatriptan succinate. While allergic rhinitis can cause symptoms such as nasal congestion, sneezing, and itching, it does not interact with the pharmacological action of sumatriptan. Therefore, it is not a contraindication for the use of this medication.
Choice D reason:
Type 2 diabetes mellitus is not a primary concern when administering sumatriptan succinate. Although diabetes can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, the presence of diabetes alone does not contraindicate the use of sumatriptan. However, it is important to consider the overall cardiovascular risk profile of the client, including any complications related to diabetes.
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