The nurse should teach the client who is taking digoxin 0.125 mg PO daily to call the healthcare provider if which side effect is experienced?
Tinnitus
Constipation
Visual disturbances
Vertigo
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A reason: Tinnitus is not a common or serious side effect of digoxin, a drug that strengthens the contraction of the heart and regulates the heart rhythm. ¹ Tinnitus is a ringing or buzzing sound in the ears that can be caused by many factors, such as ear infections, loud noises, or medications. ² However, digoxin is not known to cause tinnitus, and it is not a reason to call the healthcare provider.
Choice B reason: Constipation is not a common or serious side effect of digoxin. Digoxin does not affect the bowel function, and it is not a reason to call the healthcare provider. Constipation can be caused by many factors, such as dehydration, lack of fiber, or medications. ³ The client should drink plenty of fluids, eat high-fiber foods, and exercise regularly to prevent or relieve constipation.
Choice C reason: Visual disturbances are a common and serious side effect of digoxin, and they are a reason to call the healthcare provider. Digoxin can cause changes in vision, such as blurred vision, yellow or green halos around objects, or seeing spots or flashes. ¹ These are signs of digoxin toxicity, which is a potentially life-threatening condition that occurs when the level of digoxin in the blood is too high. The client should report any visual disturbances to the healthcare provider as soon as possible.
Choice D reason: Vertigo is not a common or serious side effect of digoxin. Vertigo is a sensation of spinning or losing balance that can be caused by many factors, such as inner ear problems, head injuries, or medications. However, digoxin is not known to cause vertigo, and it is not a reason to call the healthcare provider.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
No explanation
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: This is the correct answer. Tremors and twitching are signs of hypomagnesemia, which is a low level of magnesium in the blood. Magnesium is a mineral that is involved in many enzymatic reactions and neuromuscular functions. A low magnesium level can cause hyperexcitability of the nerves and muscles, leading to involuntary movements and spasms. Alcoholism can cause hypomagnesemia by reducing the absorption and increasing the excretion of magnesium.
Choice B reason: Positive Chvostek's sign is not a sign of hypomagnesemia, but of hypocalcemia, which is a low level of calcium in the blood. Calcium is another mineral that is important for the function of nerves and muscles. A low calcium level can cause tetany, which is a condition of sustained muscle contraction. Chvostek's sign is a test that involves tapping the facial nerve in front of the ear and observing for a twitching of the facial muscles. A positive Chvostek's sign indicates hypocalcemia, not hypomagnesemia.
Choice C reason: Decreased deep tendon reflexes are not a sign of hypomagnesemia, but of hypermagnesemia, which is a high level of magnesium in the blood. A high magnesium level can cause hyporeflexia, which is a reduced or absent response to stimuli. Magnesium has a sedative effect on the nerves and muscles, and can inhibit the transmission of impulses. Hypermagnesemia can be caused by excessive intake or impaired excretion of magnesium.
Choice D reason: Polyuria and flank pain are not signs of hypomagnesemia, but of kidney problems, such as infection, stones, or failure. Polyuria is the production of abnormally large amounts of urine, and flank pain is the pain in the side or back below the ribs. These symptoms can indicate damage or inflammation of the kidneys, which can affect the balance of fluids and electrolytes in the body. Hypomagnesemia does not directly cause polyuria or flank pain, but it can be a result of kidney dysfunction.
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