Which assessment finding requires nursing intervention prior to the administration of a prescribed dose of digoxin to an adult?
Apical pulse rate of 50 beats/minute.
Irregular apical pulse rhythm.
Presence of a systolic heart murmur.
Apical pulse heard best at the pulmonic site.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason: Apical pulse rate of 50 beats/minute requires nursing intervention prior to the administration of digoxin, which is a medication that slows down and strengthens the heartbeat. Digoxin can cause bradycardia, which is a slow heart rate below 60 beats/minute. Bradycardia can lead to inadequate blood flow and oxygen delivery to the body. The nurse should withhold the dose of digoxin and notify the prescriber if the apical pulse rate is below 60 beats/minute.
Choice B reason: Irregular apical pulse rhythm does not require nursing intervention prior to the administration of digoxin, which is a medication that treats arrhythmias, which are irregular heart rhythms. Digoxin can correct or prevent some types of arrhythmias, such as atrial fibrillation or flutter. The nurse should monitor the apical pulse rhythm and report any changes to the prescriber, but it is not a reason to withhold the dose of digoxin.
Choice C reason: Presence of a systolic heart murmur does not require nursing intervention prior to the administration of digoxin, which is a medication that improves the pumping function of the heart. A systolic heart murmur is a sound that occurs when the heart contracts and blood flows through a narrow or leaky valve. Digoxin can reduce the symptoms of heart failure, such as shortness of breath, fatigue, and edema, which may be associated with a systolic heart murmur. The nurse should document the presence and characteristics of the heart murmur, but it is not a reason to withhold the dose of digoxin.
Choice D reason: Apical pulse heard best at the pulmonic site does not require nursing intervention prior to the administration of digoxin, which is a medication that affects the electrical activity and contractility of the heart. The apical pulse is the heartbeat heard at the apex of the heart, which is located at the fifth intercostal space on the left midclavicular line. The pulmonic site is located at the second intercostal space on the left sternal border, where the sound of blood flow through the pulmonary valve can be heard. The nurse should listen to the apical pulse at the correct location, but it is not a reason to withhold the dose of digoxin.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Hard candy can be used for a dry mouth, which is a common side effect of St. John's wort.
Choice B reason: Another form of contraception is needed, because St. John's wort can reduce the effectiveness of oral contraceptives and increase the risk of unplanned pregnancy. This information requires further instruction from the nurse.
Choice C reason: Insomnia may occur while taking the medication, which is another possible side effect of St. John's wort. The client should be advised to take the medication in the morning or afternoon, and avoid caffeine and alcohol.
Choice D reason: Sensitivity to the sun can develop, which is a rare but serious side effect of St. John's wort. The client should be instructed to wear sunscreen and protective clothing when exposed to sunlight.
Correct Answer is []
Explanation
Potential Condition:Methemoglobinemia
Methemoglobinemia is a condition in which the hemoglobin in the blood is unable to bind oxygen effectively, resulting in tissue hypoxia. It can be caused by exposure to certain drugs or chemicals, such as nitrates, benzocaine, or dapsone. Some symptoms of methemoglobinemia include cyanosis, headache, fatigue, dyspnea, and tachycardia. In severe cases, it can lead to seizures, coma, and death.
Actions to Take:
- Draw blood for a complete blood count
- administer methylene blue
A complete blood count (CBC) can help diagnose methemoglobinemia by measuring the level of methemoglobin in the blood. A normal level is less than 1%, while a level above 15% can cause symptoms. A level above 30% can be life-threatening. Methylene blue is a medication that can reduce methemoglobin back to normal hemoglobin and restore oxygen delivery to the tissues. It is given intravenously at a dose of 1-2 mg/kg over 5 minutes.
Parameters to Monitor:
- Methemoglobin level
- heart rate and rhythm
The methemoglobin level is the most important parameter to monitor in methemoglobinemia, as it indicates the severity of the condition and the response to treatment. The goal is to lower the level below 10% or until symptoms resolve. The heart rate and rhythm are also important to monitor, as methemoglobinemia can cause tachycardia and dysrhythmias due to hypoxia and acidosis. The goal is to maintain a normal sinus rhythm and a heart rate within the normal range for the client’s age and condition.
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