A patient who has heart failure recently started taking digoxin in addition to furosemide and captopril. Which finding by the home health nurse is a priority to communicate to the health care provider?.
Weight increase from 120 pounds to 122 pounds over 3 days.
Serum potassium level 3.0 mEq/L after 1 week of therapy.
Palpable liver edge 2 cm below the ribs on the right side.
Presence of 1+ to 2+ edema in the feet and ankles.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale:
A weight increase from 120 pounds to 122 pounds over 3 days is within the normal fluctuation range.
Choice B rationale:
A serum potassium level of 3.0 mEq/L after 1 week of therapy is concerning because it’s below the normal range (3.5-5.0 mEq/L)171819. This could indicate hypokalemia, which can cause serious complications if left untreated.
Choice C rationale:
A palpable liver edge 2 cm below the ribs on the right side could suggest an abnormality such as an enlarged liver.
Choice D rationale:
The presence of 1+ to 2+ edema in the feet and ankles could indicate conditions like heart failure or venous insufficiency.
So, the correct answer is Choice B, after analyzing all choices.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
An irregular pulse could indicate that myocarditis is affecting the heart’s electrical system, leading to an irregular heartbeat or arrhythmia. This could potentially affect the action of digoxin, a medication used to treat heart conditions, and therefore should be communicated to the healthcare provider.
Choice B rationale:
Leukocytosis, or a high white blood cell count, can be a sign of infection or inflammation, including myocarditis. However, it is not as specific as an irregular pulse in indicating a potential issue with the administration of digoxin.
Choice C rationale:
Generalized myalgia, or muscle pain, can be a symptom of myocarditis. However, it is not as directly related to the action of digoxin as an irregular pulse.
Choice D rationale:
Fatigue can be a symptom of myocarditis. However, it is not as directly related to the action of digoxin as an irregular pulse.
So, the correct answer is A, after analyzing all choices.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Checking the pulse rate before taking nitroglycerin is not necessary.
Choice B rationale:
Sitting down before taking nitroglycerin can prevent dizziness and fainting, which are potential side effects of nitroglycerin.
Choice C rationale:
There is no need to remove the nitroglycerin patch before taking sublingual nitroglycerin.
Choice D rationale:
The nitroglycerin patch should not be used to treat acute chest pain.
So, the correct answer is B, after analyzing all choices.
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