The nurse is caring for an adult client who is taking digoxin. Which laboratory value should be reported to the healthcare provider immediately?

Reference Range:
Sodium [Adult 136 to 145 mEq/L (136 to 145 mmol/L)]
Digoxin level (0.8 to 2.0 ng/mL (0.6 to 13 nmol/L)]
Potassium (K+) [Adult: 3.5 to 5.0 mEq/L (3.5 to 5.0 mmol/L)]
Creatinine [0.5 to 1.1 mg/dL (44 to 97 μmol/L)]

Digoxin level of 1.1 ng/mL (1.4 nmol/L).

Creatinine level of 0.8 mg/dL (70.72 μmol/L).

Potassium level of 3.2 mEq/L (3.2 mmol/L).

Sodium level of 135 mEq/L (135 mmol/L).

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

A. Digoxin level of 1.1 ng/mL (1.4 nmol/L):
A digoxin level of 1.1 ng/mL is within the therapeutic range (0.8 to 2.0 ng/mL). While it is important to monitor digoxin levels, this value does not indicate an immediate concern.

B. Creatinine level of 0.8 mg/dL (70.72 μmol/L):
A creatinine level of 0.8 mg/dL is within the normal range (0.5 to 1.1 mg/dL) and does not indicate any renal impairment or immediate issue.

C. Potassium level of 3.2 mEq/L (3.2 mmol/L):
A potassium level of 3.2 mEq/L is below the normal range (3.5 to 5.0 mEq/L). Hypokalemia can increase the risk of digoxin toxicity and arrhythmias, making this an urgent issue that should be reported to the healthcare provider immediately.

D. Sodium level of 135 mEq/L (135 mmol/L):
A sodium level of 135 mEq/L is slightly below the normal range (136 to 145 mEq/L), but it is not as critical as a significantly abnormal potassium level in the context of digoxin use. While it should be monitored, it is less urgent compared to the potassium level.

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Free Nursing Study Resources

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A. The viral load can be decreased to an undetectable level:
This statement is accurate. Antiretroviral medications can reduce the viral load in the blood to undetectable levels, which helps in managing HIV effectively.

B. Antiretroviral medication prevents the transmission of the virus:
This statement is misleading. While antiretroviral medications are effective in managing HIV and can reduce the viral load to undetectable levels, they do not entirely prevent the transmission of the virus. Safe practices, including the use of condoms and pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), are also necessary to reduce transmission risk.

C. The medications can decrease acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) related complications:
This is correct. Antiretroviral therapy helps manage HIV, preventing the progression to AIDS and reducing the likelihood of complications associated with AIDS.

D. HIV infection is not cured by the antiretroviral regimen:
This is true. Current antiretroviral therapies effectively control HIV and prevent progression to AIDS, but they do not cure the infection. Ongoing treatment is necessary to maintain viral suppression and overall health.

A. The inhaler will be used before bed each night. B. Rinsing the mouth with water should be done after each use. C. Caffeinated beverages should be limited to two cups per day. D. To mask taste of the medication, inhaler can be used during meals.

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A. The inhaler will be used before bed each night:
The timing of inhaler use depends on the type of medication (e.g., rescue vs. maintenance) and individual needs, not a fixed schedule like before bed. Proper use instructions usually specify whether it’s for acute symptoms or regular daily use.

B. Rinsing the mouth with water should be done after each use:
This is an important practice for inhaled corticosteroids to help prevent oral thrush and minimize side effects. It ensures that any residual medication is removed from the mouth.

C. Caffeinated beverages should be limited to two cups per day:
While caffeine may have interactions with certain medications, it is not specifically related to the use of inhalers. Therefore, this statement is less relevant to the immediate use of the inhaler.

D. To mask the taste of the medication, inhaler can be used during meals:
Using an inhaler during meals is not advised. It is important to use the inhaler as directed, typically separate from meals, to ensure proper inhalation and effectiveness of the medication.

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

The nurse is teaching a client who has been diagnosed with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) about the antiretroviral medication regimen. Which statement provided by the client requires additional instruction by the nurse?

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

The nurse is teaching a client how to use an inhaler device. Which client statement indicates to the nurse that the client understands the instructions?

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

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