A nurse is caring for a client who is receiving acetaminophen for mild pain.
The nurse should monitor the client for which of the following adverse effects of this medication?

Choice A rationale:

An apical pulse of 54/min is below the normal range for adults. Digoxin, a cardiac medication, can lower the heart rate. Therefore, it’s crucial to hold the medication if the resting pulse for an adult is less than 60 bpm. This is to prevent further lowering of the heart rate which could lead to bradycardia, a potentially dangerous condition.

Choice B rationale:

A respiratory rate of 14/min is within the normal adult range of 12-20 breaths per minute. This would not be a reason to withhold digoxin.

Choice C rationale:

A blood pressure (BP) of 179/89 mm Hg indicates hypertension, which is not a direct contraindication for digoxin. However, it’s important to monitor BP levels in clients taking digoxin as the medication can affect blood pressure.

Choice D rationale:

A temperature of 37.8° C (100° F) is slightly elevated but would not be a reason to withhold digoxin unless it’s indicative of an underlying infection that needs to be addressed first.

Choice A rationale:

Fexofenadine can be taken with or without food, and there are no specific interactions with magnesium hydroxide. However, it’s always important to consult a healthcare provider before combining medications.

Choice B rationale:

While staying hydrated is generally good advice, there’s no specific requirement to drink up to one liter of fluid per day while taking fexofenadine.

Choice C rationale:

Fexofenadine should not be taken with fruit juices such as orange juice because they can decrease the absorption of the medication, making it less effective.

Choice D rationale:

Fexofenadine can cause side effects such as dizziness or drowsiness in some people. Therefore, it’s important to avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how this medication affects you.