Which site will the nurse use to measure the patient’s pulse rate before administering the cardiac medication Digoxin?

Choice A reason: This is an inappropriate statement for the nurse to include in the description of the incident because it is subjective, biased, and disrespectful. The nurse should not make judgments or assumptions about the patient's personality or behavior, but rather report the facts and observations of the situation.

Choice B reason: This is an inappropriate statement for the nurse to include in the description of the incident because it is irrelevant, speculative, and accusatory. The nurse should not blame or criticize the nurse assistant's performance, but rather focus on the patient's condition and the actions taken to prevent or manage the fall.

Choice C reason: This is an inappropriate statement for the nurse to include in the description of the incident because it is uncertain, hypothetical, and unprofessional. The nurse should not use words like "probably" or "maybe" that indicate a lack of clarity or certainty, but rather state the facts and evidence of the situation.

Choice D reason: This is an appropriate statement for the nurse to include in the description of the incident because it is objective, factual, and concise. The nurse should report the patient's location, status, and environment at the time of the fall, and the possible cause or contributing factors of the fall.

Choice A reason: This is the correct choice because the apical pulse is the most accurate measurement of the heart rate and rhythm. Digoxin is a cardiac medication that affects the heart rate and can cause arrhythmias. Therefore, the nurse should use the apical pulse to monitor the patient's response to the medication.

Choice B reason: This is an incorrect choice because the carotid pulse is not the best site to measure the heart rate before administering digoxin. The carotid pulse is located in the neck and can be affected by external factors such as pressure or movement. The carotid pulse is also not recommended for routine use because it can stimulate the vagus nerve and lower the heart rate.

Choice C reason: This is an incorrect choice because the radial pulse is not the best site to measure the heart rate before administering digoxin. The radial pulse is located in the wrist and can be affected by peripheral factors such as circulation or temperature. The radial pulse can also be inaccurate or irregular if the patient has an arrhythmia.

Choice D reason: This is an incorrect choice because the brachial pulse is not the best site to measure the heart rate before administering digoxin. The brachial pulse is located in the upper arm and can be affected by arm position or blood pressure. The brachial pulse is also not as reliable as the apical pulse for detecting changes in the heart rate and rhythm.