A nurse is caring for a patient with atrial fibrillation who is on a daily regimen of digoxin. What action should the nurse take before administering this medication?

Choice A rationale

Glucocorticoid medications are not typically used in the treatment of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). These medications can actually increase blood glucose levels, which would not be beneficial in a situation where blood glucose is already significantly elevated.

Choice B rationale

Dextrose 5% in 0.45% sodium chloride is not typically used in the initial treatment of DKA. This solution contains glucose, which would add to the already high blood glucose levels in DKA5.

Choice C rationale

Oral hypoglycemic medications are not typically used in the treatment of DKA. These medications are generally used in the management of type 2 diabetes. In DKA, which is more common in type 1 diabetes, insulin is usually required to lower blood glucose levels.

Choice D rationale

A 0.9% sodium chloride IV bolus is often part of the initial treatment for DKA. This helps to replace the fluid lost through excessive urination, a common symptom of DKA5.

Choice A rationale

Before administering digoxin, it is crucial to measure the patient’s apical pulse. Digoxin affects the heart rate, and a low pulse could indicate that the dose needs to be adjusted.

Choice B rationale

Offering a light snack is not specifically required before administering digoxin.

Choice C rationale

While it’s always important to monitor a patient’s blood pressure, it’s not specifically required before administering digoxin.

Choice D rationale

Weighing the patient is not specifically required before administering digoxin.