A nurse is preparing to administer digoxin 1.5 mg PO to a client.

The amount available is digoxin 0.5 mg/tablet.

How many tablets should the nurse administer?

(Round the answer to the nearest whole number. Use a leading zero if it applies. Do not use a trailing zero.)

Choice A rationale

The oral mucosa is the most reliable indicator of central cyanosis because it reflects the oxygenation of central tissues. When there is a lack of oxygen in the bloodstream, the lips and mucous membranes, such as the oral mucosa, appear blue or cyanotic. This is a clear sign that the central tissues are not receiving adequate oxygenation.

Choice B rationale

The sclera of the eye is not a reliable indicator of central cyanosis. The sclera is white and does not change color due to oxygen levels. Instead, it may become yellow in jaundice or red in inflammation but does not reflect central cyanosis.

Choice C rationale

The ear lobes are peripheral areas and do not reliably indicate central cyanosis. Peripheral cyanosis can occur due to local blood flow issues, and ear lobes can appear blue in cold conditions even when central oxygenation is normal.

Choice D rationale

The soles of the feet, similar to the ear lobes, are peripheral areas and not reliable indicators of central cyanosis. Cyanosis in the feet can result from poor peripheral circulation rather than central hypoxia.

Step 1 is: Convert hours to minutes: 8 hours × 60 minutes/hour = 480 minutes.

Step 2 is: Calculate the drops/minute: (1000 mL ÷ 480 minutes) × 15 gtts/mL.

Step 3 is: Perform the division: 1000 mL ÷ 480 minutes ≈ 2.0833 mL/min.

Step 4 is: Perform the multiplication: 2.0833 mL/min × 15 gtts/mL ≈ 31.25 drops/min.

Step 5 is: Round the answer to the nearest whole number: 31 drops/min.

Final calculated answer: 31 drops/min.