A client returns to the unit after having a bronchoscopy. The client states "my throat is so dry. Can I have a glass of water?". How will the nurse respond?

A. This statement suggests that the client may not understand the purpose or procedure of the CT scan. CT scans typically do not require the client to drink excessive fluids afterward. However, hydration might be encouraged if contrast dye was used to help eliminate it from the body. Education is needed to clarify post-procedure instructions.
B. This statement indicates a misconception about the procedure. CT scans do not usually require anesthesia unless it's a complex situation, such as a young child or someone with severe claustrophobia. It's essential to educate the client about what to expect during the CT scan to reduce anxiety and ensure cooperation during the procedure.
C. This statement shows awareness of potential allergies to contrast dye, which often contains iodine. It indicates that the client understands the importance of disclosing allergies to the healthcare team before the procedure. While this is generally a positive sign of awareness, further education may still be needed to ensure complete understanding of allergy management.
D. This statement demonstrates understanding of pre-procedure instructions, which often include fasting or specific dietary restrictions. It suggests that the client understands the importance of these restrictions to ensure accurate test results and safety during the CT scan.

A. Hemoglobin levels are important for assessing oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood. While anemia can affect tissue oxygenation and exacerbate symptoms in heart failure, it is not directly related to the risk of digoxin toxicity.
B. Creatinine levels are used to assess kidney function. Impaired kidney function can affect the clearance of digoxin from the body, potentially increasing the risk of toxicity. However, potassium levels have a more direct impact on the risk of digoxin toxicity.
C. BUN levels are also used to assess kidney function. Similar to creatinine, impaired kidney function can affect digoxin clearance, but potassium levels are more directly related to the risk of digoxin toxicity.
D. Potassium levels are critical because hypokalemia (low potassium) can predispose the client to digoxin toxicity. Digoxin competes with potassium for binding sites on the sodium-potassium ATPase pump in cardiac cells. When potassium levels are low, digoxin can bind more readily to these pumps, leading to increased toxicity and potentially life-threatening arrhythmias such as ventricular tachycardia or ventricular fibrillation.