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:
Use a straw to ingest: Ferrous sulfate elixir can cause staining of the teeth. Using a straw helps to minimize contact with the teeth, thereby reducing the risk of staining. This method ensures that the medication is ingested directly into the throat, bypassing the teeth.
Choice B Reason:
Swallow undiluted: Swallowing ferrous sulfate elixir undiluted is not recommended because it can cause gastrointestinal irritation. Diluting the elixir in water or juice can help to minimize this irritation and improve absorption.
Choice C Reason:
Mix with an antacid: Mixing ferrous sulfate with an antacid is not advisable because antacids can interfere with the absorption of iron. Iron is best absorbed in an acidic environment, and antacids neutralize stomach acid, thereby reducing iron absorption.
Choice D Reason:
Take with a glass of milk: Taking ferrous sulfate with milk is not recommended because calcium in milk can inhibit the absorption of iron. It is best to take iron supplements on an empty stomach or with a source of vitamin C, such as orange juice, to enhance absorption
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: Zolpidem is primarily prescribed for the short-term treatment of insomnia. It works by enhancing the activity of the inhibitory neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) at the GABA-A receptor, which helps to induce sleep. While improved sleep can indirectly affect other conditions, such as incontinence, decreased episodes of incontinence are not a direct outcome of zolpidem administration.
Choice B reason: Improved ability to concentrate is not a primary outcome of zolpidem treatment. Zolpidem is a sedative-hypnotic medication used to treat insomnia by helping patients fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. While better sleep can improve overall cognitive function, the primary goal of zolpidem is to improve sleep quality, not directly enhance concentration.
Choice C reason: Exhibiting fewer emotional outbursts is not a direct effect of zolpidem. The medication is designed to treat insomnia and does not have a significant impact on emotional regulation. Emotional outbursts may be related to other underlying conditions that zolpidem does not address.
Choice D reason: The primary desired outcome of zolpidem administration is to help the patient sleep soundly through the night. Zolpidem is effective in reducing sleep latency and increasing the duration of sleep, which is particularly beneficial for older adults who may have difficulty maintaining sleep. Achieving a full night’s rest is the main indicator that zolpidem is working as intended.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.