A nurse is caring for a client in a clinic.

Vital Signs 0915:

Temperature 36.7° C (98° F)

BP 122/80 mm Hg Respiratory rate 20/min Heart rate 99/min

Nurses' Notes 0900:

A 16-year-old client reports to the clinic with their caregiver. The client's caregiver informs the nurse that the client has "not been themselves lately." The client's parents and a sibling passed away from injuries sustained when a tornado moved through their town 1 month ago. They were the only survivors and witnessed their family's deaths.

0910:

The client appears anxious but answers appropriately for age. They report experiencing nightmares that awaken them at night and startle easily during thunderstorms, but the client admits that they have always been afraid of thunderstorms. The client admits to smoking marijuana for about 1 month because it helps clear their mind. They also admit that they have no desire to leave the house. They attend school regularly and are on the honor roll.

Based on the information in the client's medical record, which of the following findings requires immediate follow-up?

Select the 4 findings that require follow-up.

Digoxin is a medicine used to treat various heart conditions, including heart failure and irregular heartbeat1. It is important to follow the doctor’s instructions carefully when giving digoxin to your child, as the dosage and timing may vary depending on your child’s age, weight, and medical condition.

Out of the four statements you provided, only one is correct. The correct statement is:

d. “Have your child drink a small glass of water after swallowing the medication.”

This statement is correct because drinking water after taking digoxin can help prevent stomach upset and ensure proper absorption of the medicine.

The other three statements are incorrect and should not be followed. Here are the reasons why:

a. “You can add the medication to a half-cup of your child’s favorite juice.”

This statement is incorrect because adding digoxin to juice or other liquids can alter the concentration and effectiveness of the medicine4. You should give digoxin to your child by mouth with or without food, using a marked measuring spoon or medicine cup. If you are using the liquid form of digoxin, you can give a small squirt of the medicine inside the cheek and let your child swallow it before giving more.

b. “Repeat the dose if your child vomits within 1 hour after taking the medication.”

This statement is incorrect because repeating the dose of digoxin can increase the risk of overdose and side effects4. Digoxin has a narrow therapeutic range, which means that too much or too little of the medicine can be harmful. If your child vomits within 1 hour after taking digoxin, do not give another dose and continue with the normal dose amount at the next scheduled time4. If your child vomits frequently or has signs of overdose, such as nausea, drowsiness, confusion, vision changes, or irregular heartbeat, call your doctor or poison control center immediately.

c. “Limit your child’s potassium intake while she is taking this medication.”

This statement is incorrect because limiting your child’s potassium intake can actually worsen the effects of digoxin6. Digoxin works by affecting the levels of sodium and potassium in the heart cells, which helps regulate the heart rhythm and contractility. However, low potassium levels can make digoxin more toxic and increase the risk of arrhythmias6. Therefore, you should not restrict your child’s potassium intake unless instructed by your doctor6. You should also avoid giving your child foods or supplements that are high in fiber, as they can interfere with the absorption of digoxin. Some examples of high-fiber foods are bran, psyllium, and some fruits and vegetables

Choice A rationale:

Diazepam is a benzodiazepine medication commonly used to manage seizures, including those associated with alcohol withdrawal. It acts as a central nervous system depressant, reducing excessive neuronal activity and helping control seizures. Diazepam is considered the first-line medication for managing alcohol withdrawal seizures due to its efficacy and safety profile when administered under medical supervision.

Choice B rationale:

Naltrexone is an opioid receptor antagonist used primarily to treat alcohol and opioid dependence. It does not have a direct anticonvulsant effect and is not indicated for managing seizures associated with alcohol withdrawal. Naltrexone works by blocking the effects of opioids and reducing cravings, making it valuable in substance use disorder treatment but not in the acute management of seizures.

Choice C rationale:

Acamprosate is another medication used in the treatment of alcohol dependence. It helps maintain abstinence from alcohol by reducing cravings and withdrawal symptoms. However, it does not have anticonvulsant properties and is not used to manage seizures associated with alcohol withdrawal. Acamprosate is more focused on supporting long-term sobriety and preventing relapse in individuals