A patient with atrial fibrillation and a serum potassium level of 3.0 mEq/L takes digoxin (Lanoxin), ASA (aspirin), KCL (potassium chloride), and warfarin (Coumadin) daily. The patient reports visual disturbances. The nurse suspects problems with which medication?
Potassium chloride.
Warfarin.
Aspirin.
Digoxin.
The Correct Answer is D
Digoxin. Choice A rationale:
Potassium chloride (KCL) is a supplement used to treat or prevent low potassium levels. While it can have side effects, visual disturbances are not typically associated with KCL. Therefore, it is not the medication the nurse suspects to be causing the problem.
Choice B rationale:
Warfarin (Coumadin) is an anticoagulant used to prevent blood clot formation. Visual disturbances are not a known side effect of warfarin. Therefore, it is unlikely to be the cause of the patient's symptoms.
Choice C rationale:
Aspirin (ASA) is a pain reliever and antiplatelet medication, and while it can cause visual disturbances in some cases, it is not a common or significant side effect. Aspirin is also not specifically linked to atrial fibrillation.
Choice D rationale:
Digoxin (Lanoxin) is used to treat atrial fibrillation and heart failure. Visual disturbances are a known side effect of digoxin toxicity. Given the patient's diagnosis of atrial fibrillation and the reported symptoms, the nurse suspects the problem lies with digoxin and should further investigate and report to the provider.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Hypokalemia is not a direct adverse effect of dextrose 10% in water infusion. This solution does not contain potassium, and unless the patient already has low potassium levels or other contributing factors, it would not cause hypokalemia.
Choice B rationale:
Hypercalcemia is unrelated to dextrose 10% in water infusion. The solution does not contain calcium, and it would not lead to an increase in serum calcium levels.
Choice C rationale:
Hypovolemia, or low blood volume, is not typically associated with dextrose 10% in water infusion. However, if administered rapidly in large amounts, it could potentially cause fluid overload leading to hypervolemia.
Choice D rationale:
Hyperglycemia is a possible adverse effect of dextrose 10% in water infusion. The solution contains a high concentration of glucose, which can raise blood sugar levels if the body cannot adequately utilize or regulate the glucose. Regular monitoring of blood glucose levels is essential during such an infusion, especially in patients with diabetes or impaired glucose tolerance.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Sodium level is a laboratory parameter that can be helpful in assessing fluid balance, but it does not directly measure fluid retention. Abnormal sodium levels may indicate fluid imbalances, but it is not the most reliable measure of fluid retention.
Choice B rationale:
Tissue turgor refers to the skin's elasticity, and it can be used to assess dehydration rather than fluid retention. Poor turgor may indicate dehydration, but it does not specifically measure fluid volume increase.
Choice C rationale:
Daily weight is a reliable measure of fluid retention. An increase in weight over a short period may indicate fluid accumulation in the body, while a decrease in weight could signify fluid loss. It is essential to monitor weight consistently under standardized conditions (e.g., same time, same clothing) for accurate assessment.
Choice D rationale:
Intake and output records provide information about fluid intake and output but may not always reflect fluid retention accurately. It is helpful for assessing fluid balance, but daily weight is a more direct and reliable measure of fluid retention.
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