The nurse is caring for a client prescribed digoxin. When assessing the client for adverse effects, the nurse should assess for which of the following signs and symptoms? (Select All that Apply.)
numbness in extremities
fatigue
Shortness of breath
anorexia
Chest pain
Confusion
Correct Answer : B,C,D,E,F
A. Numbness in extremities: Numbness in extremities is not a common adverse effect of digoxin. The focus of digoxin monitoring is primarily on cardiovascular and gastrointestinal effects.
B. Fatigue: Fatigue is a common adverse effect of digoxin and can indicate toxicity or overdose. Clients taking digoxin should be monitored for increased fatigue or weakness.
C. Shortness of breath: Shortness of breath can occur as an adverse effect of digoxin toxicity, particularly if it leads to pulmonary congestion or heart failure exacerbation.
D. Anorexia: Anorexia, or loss of appetite, can be a gastrointestinal adverse effect of digoxin. Clients may experience nausea, vomiting, or anorexia, which can contribute to weight loss and electrolyte imbalances.
E. Chest pain: Chest pain can be a sign of digoxin toxicity, especially if it is associated with other symptoms such as shortness of breath or palpitations. It is essential to evaluate any chest pain in a client taking digoxin.
F. Confusion: Confusion or changes in mental status can occur with digoxin toxicity, particularly in older adults. Clients should be monitored for signs of confusion, delirium, or other cognitive changes.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["B","C","D","E","F"]
Explanation
A. Numbness in extremities: Numbness in extremities is not a common adverse effect of digoxin. The focus of digoxin monitoring is primarily on cardiovascular and gastrointestinal effects.
B. Fatigue: Fatigue is a common adverse effect of digoxin and can indicate toxicity or overdose. Clients taking digoxin should be monitored for increased fatigue or weakness.
C. Shortness of breath: Shortness of breath can occur as an adverse effect of digoxin toxicity, particularly if it leads to pulmonary congestion or heart failure exacerbation.
D. Anorexia: Anorexia, or loss of appetite, can be a gastrointestinal adverse effect of digoxin. Clients may experience nausea, vomiting, or anorexia, which can contribute to weight loss and electrolyte imbalances.
E. Chest pain: Chest pain can be a sign of digoxin toxicity, especially if it is associated with other symptoms such as shortness of breath or palpitations. It is essential to evaluate any chest pain in a client taking digoxin.
F. Confusion: Confusion or changes in mental status can occur with digoxin toxicity, particularly in older adults. Clients should be monitored for signs of confusion, delirium, or other cognitive changes.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Initiate cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR): CPR is not indicated in this scenario unless the client experiences a cardiac arrest. Chest pain during an exercise stress test does not automatically warrant CPR.
B. Administer sublingual nitroglycerin to allow the client to finish the test: Nitroglycerin is typically used to relieve angina (chest pain) associated with myocardial ischemia. However, in this case, the exercise stress test should be stopped to evaluate the cause of the chest pain before administering nitroglycerin.
C. Stop the test and monitor the client closely: This is the correct action. Chest pain during an exercise stress test may indicate myocardial ischemia (lack of blood flow to the heart muscle), and stopping the test allows for further assessment and evaluation of the client's condition.
D. Administer analgesia and slow the test: Administering analgesia (pain medication) is not appropriate without first determining the cause of the chest pain. Slowing the test may not address the underlying issue and could potentially worsen the client's condition if they are experiencing cardiac-related chest pain.
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