A nurse is reviewing the laboratory results for a female client who is receiving furosemide and digoxin. Which of the following findings should the nurse recognize increases the client's risk for developing digoxin toxicity?
Potassium 3.1 mEq/L (3.5 to 5 mEq/L)
WBC count 12,000/mm³ (5,000 to 10,000/mm³)
Fasting glucose 150 mg/dL (74 to 106 mg/dL)
Triglycerides 140 mg/dL (35 to 135 mg/dL)
The Correct Answer is A
Rationale:
A. Potassium 3.1 mEq/L (3.5 to 5 mEq/L): Hypokalemia increases the risk of digoxin toxicity because low potassium levels enhance digoxin’s effects on the myocardium, potentially leading to arrhythmias and other toxic effects. Monitoring electrolytes is crucial for clients taking digoxin, especially when on diuretics like furosemide.
B. WBC count 12,000/mm³ (5,000 to 10,000/mm³): An elevated WBC may indicate infection or inflammation but does not directly influence digoxin toxicity. This finding requires assessment but is not a risk factor for digoxin-related complications.
C. Fasting glucose 150 mg/dL (74 to 106 mg/dL): Elevated glucose reflects hyperglycemia but does not affect digoxin levels or toxicity risk. It should be managed separately according to the client’s metabolic needs.
D. Triglycerides 140 mg/dL (35 to 135 mg/dL): Mildly elevated triglycerides are a cardiovascular risk factor but do not directly increase the likelihood of digoxin toxicity. Lipid management is a separate consideration.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Rationale:
A. A health care surrogate makes health care decisions when the client is no longer able: A health care surrogate, also called a health care proxy, is designated by the client to make medical decisions on their behalf if they become incapacitated.
B. Advance directives cannot be changed once implemented: Advance directives are legally binding but can be revised or revoked by the client at any time while they are competent. Flexibility allows clients to update their preferences as their health status or values change.
C. Assigning a health care surrogate requires legal consultation: While consulting an attorney can be helpful, it is not required to designate a health care surrogate. Most states allow clients to assign a surrogate using standardized forms provided by healthcare facilities or state agencies.
D. A client must create a do-not-resuscitate order when completing advance directives: Creating a DNR order is optional and only applicable if the client wishes to limit resuscitation. Advance directives encompass broader healthcare decisions beyond resuscitation preferences.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Oxygen saturation 97% on room air: Adequate oxygenation is essential for wound healing because oxygen supports collagen synthesis and tissue repair. An oxygen saturation of 97% indicates sufficient oxygen delivery to tissues and does not place the client at risk for delayed healing.
B. Pain level of 1 on a scale of 0 to 10: Minimal pain suggests effective postoperative pain management and allows the client to move, breathe deeply, and participate in recovery activities. Pain at this level does not negatively impact the wound-healing process.
C. BMI 35: Obesity is associated with delayed wound healing due to poor vascularity in adipose tissue, which reduces oxygen and nutrient delivery to the wound. Increased tension on wound edges and a higher risk of infection also contribute to impaired healing in obese clients.
D. Capillary refill time 1 second: A capillary refill of 1 second reflects adequate peripheral perfusion, which supports effective oxygen and nutrient delivery to tissues. Normal circulation facilitates the healing process rather than delaying it.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.