A nurse is caring for a client who has congestive heart failure and is taking digoxin daily. The client refused breakfast and is complaining of nausea and weakness. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?
Request a dietitian consult.
Suggest that the client rests before eating the meal.
Request an order for an antiemetic.
Check the client's vital signs.
The Correct Answer is D
The nurse should check the client's vital signs first because nausea and weakness are signs of digoxin toxicity, which can also cause bradycardia, hypotension, and arrhythmias. The nurse should also assess the client's serum digoxin level, potassium level, and electrocardiogram.
Request a dietitian consult is wrong because it is not the priority action and it does not address the possible cause of the client's symptoms. A dietitian consult may be helpful to provide nutritional education and guidance, but only after ruling out or treating digoxin toxicity.
Suggest that the client rests before eating the meal is wrong because it is not the priority action and it may delay the diagnosis and treatment of digoxin toxicity. The nurse should not assume that the client's symptoms are due to fatigue or lack of appetite, but rather investigate for any underlying problems.
Request an order for an antiemetic is wrong because it is not the priority action and it may mask the symptoms of digoxin toxicity. The nurse should not administer any medications that could interact with digoxin or worsen its effects, but rather notify the provider and follow the protocol for digoxin toxicity management.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Taking one tablet at the first indication of chest pain is the correct way to use SL nitroglycerin tablets, as they are fast- acting and can relieve anginal symptoms within minutes. The client should place the tablet under the tongue and let it dissolve.
Taking one tablet at the first indication of chest pain is the correct way to use SL nitroglycerin tablets, as they are fast- acting and can relieve anginal symptoms within minutes. The client should place the tablet under the tongue and let it dissolve.
Taking this medication after each meal and at bedtime is not appropriate, as SL nitroglycerin tablets are not meant for routine or prophylactic use, but only for acute episodes of angina.
Taking one tablet every 15 min during an acute attack is not correct, as the client should not exceed three doses in 15 min. If the pain is not relieved after three doses, the client should seek emergency medical attention.
Taking this medication with 8 ounces of water is not necessary, as SL nitroglycerin tablets do not need to be swallowed or washed down with water. They should be dissolved under the tongue for optimal absorption.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Swallowing the capsules whole is the correct way to take nitroglycerin oral, sustained-release capsules, as they are designed to release the medication slowly and steadily over time. The client should not crush, chew, or open the capsules, as this can alter the absorption and effectiveness of the medication.
Taking 1 capsule at the onset of anginal pain is not appropriate, as nitroglycerin oral, sustained-release capsules are not meant for acute episodes of angina, but for long-term prevention and management. The client should use a fast-acting form of nitroglycerin, such as sublingual tablets or spray, to relieve anginal pain.
Taking the medication with meals is not necessary, as nitroglycerin oral, sustained-release capsules can be taken with or without food. However, the client should take the medication at regular intervals and around the same time each day.
Stopping taking the medication if side effects are troublesome is not advisable, as nitroglycerin oral, sustained-release capsules can cause withdrawal symptoms and rebound angina if discontinued abruptly. The client should consult with the provider before stopping or changing the dose of the medication. The client should also report any severe or persistent side effects, such as headache, dizziness, hypotension, or tachycardia.
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