What condition does the nurse suspect when a patient involved in a motor vehicle accident arrives at the emergency department with ecchymosis behind the ears and bleeding from the ears?

Choice A reason: Administering 2 tablets of digoxin 0.125 mg would provide the correct dosage of 0.25 mg. However, given the client's heart rate of 54/min, administering the medication could further lower the heart rate, which can be dangerous. The nurse should withhold the medication and notify the physician.

Choice B reason: Withholding the digoxin dose for decreased heart rate is the correct action. Digoxin is used to slow down the heart rate and strengthen heart contractions. A heart rate of 54/min is considered bradycardia (slow heart rate), and administering digoxin could exacerbate the bradycardia, leading to potential complications such as heart block or severe arrhythmias. Therefore, it is critical to withhold the medication and inform the physician of the client's current heart rate.

Choice C reason: Administering one tablet of digoxin 0.125 mg would not provide the full prescribed dose of 0.25 mg. More importantly, the client's low heart rate makes it unsafe to administer any dose of digoxin at this time.

Choice D reason: Withholding the digoxin dose for elevated blood pressure is not appropriate. Although the client has elevated blood pressure (144/96), the more immediate concern is the low heart rate. Digoxin affects heart rate more than blood pressure, and the risk of exacerbating bradycardia takes precedence.

Choice A reason: Maintaining nothing by mouth (NPO) and administering intravenous fluids is the best intervention to reduce discomfort in a patient with acute pancreatitis. NPO status helps to rest the pancreas by preventing the secretion of pancreatic enzymes that can exacerbate inflammation and pain. Intravenous fluids are essential to maintain hydration and electrolyte balance while the patient is not eating or drinking.

Choice B reason: Providing small, frequent feedings with no concentrated sweets is not appropriate for a patient with acute pancreatitis. The priority is to keep the patient NPO to rest the pancreas. Introducing any food can stimulate the pancreas and worsen the condition.

Choice C reason: Administering morphine sulfate intramuscularly every 4 hours as needed can help manage pain, but the preferred route for pain medication in acute pancreatitis is intravenous, as it provides quicker relief and avoids the discomfort of intramuscular injections. Pain management is important, but it should be part of a broader plan that includes NPO status and IV fluids.

Choice D reason: Positioning the patient in a flat, supine position is not recommended for reducing discomfort in acute pancreatitis. Patients often find relief in a semi-Fowler's position (head elevated) or by leaning forward, which can help reduce abdominal pain and pressure on the inflamed pancreas.