/*! This file is auto-generated */ .wp-block-button__link{color:#fff;background-color:#32373c;border-radius:9999px;box-shadow:none;text-decoration:none;padding:calc(.667em + 2px) calc(1.333em + 2px);font-size:1.125em}.wp-block-file__button{background:#32373c;color:#fff;text-decoration:none} Problem 150 A client is taking digoxin (Lano... [FREE SOLUTION] | 91Ó°ÊÓ

91Ó°ÊÓ

A client is taking digoxin (Lanoxin) for atrial fibrillation and cardiomegally. Which assessment finding requires the nurse to notify the physician of a potential adverse effect? A. Abdominal pain and nausea B. Rhythm change to normal sinus rhythm C. Heart rate of 62 D. Weight gain of \(1 / 2\) pound

Short Answer

Expert verified
A. Abdominal pain and nausea

Step by step solution

01

Identify the Purpose of Digoxin

Digoxin (Lanoxin) is commonly used to treat atrial fibrillation and heart failure by improving the strength and efficiency of the heart, as well as controlling the rate and rhythm of the heartbeat.
02

Recognize Common Adverse Effects

Common adverse effects of digoxin include gastrointestinal symptoms (like abdominal pain and nausea), vision changes, confusion, irregular heartbeat, and weakness.
03

Analyze Each Option

Evaluate each assessment finding in relation to common adverse effects of digoxin and patient safety: - Abdominal pain and nausea (common adverse effects) - Rhythm change to normal sinus rhythm (desired effect) - Heart rate of 62 (slightly low, monitor but not immediately alarming) - Weight gain of 1/2 pound (minor change)
04

Determine the Critical Finding

Among the options, abdominal pain and nausea are the most indicative of a potential adverse effect that requires notifying the physician.

Unlock Step-by-Step Solutions & Ace Your Exams!

  • Full Textbook Solutions

    Get detailed explanations and key concepts

  • Unlimited Al creation

    Al flashcards, explanations, exams and more...

  • Ads-free access

    To over 500 millions flashcards

  • Money-back guarantee

    We refund you if you fail your exam.

Over 30 million students worldwide already upgrade their learning with 91Ó°ÊÓ!

Key Concepts

These are the key concepts you need to understand to accurately answer the question.

Digoxin Adverse Effects
Digoxin, also known by its brand name Lanoxin, is a medication that helps manage conditions like atrial fibrillation and heart failure. While it can be very effective, it can also have some serious side effects. Recognizing these adverse effects is critical for ensuring patient safety.
Common adverse effects of digoxin include:
  • Gastrointestinal symptoms such as abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting
  • Cardiovascular issues like irregular heartbeats and changes in heart rhythm
  • Neurological symptoms such as confusion and dizziness
  • Visual disturbances, including blurred or yellow vision
If a patient exhibits any of these symptoms, it is important to alert a healthcare provider immediately. Early detection can help prevent more severe complications.
Atrial Fibrillation Management
Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is a common heart condition characterized by an irregular and often rapid heartbeat. Managing AFib effectively often involves a combination of medication, lifestyle changes, and sometimes surgical procedures.
Medications for controlling heart rate and rhythm include:
  • Beta-blockers
  • Calcium channel blockers
  • Anticoagulants to prevent blood clots
  • Digoxin for cases requiring additional support
In addition to medication, lifestyle changes can significantly impact AFib management. Patients are advised to:
  • Avoid excessive alcohol and caffeine
  • Engage in regular physical activity
  • Maintain a healthy weight
  • Manage stress levels through relaxation techniques like yoga or meditation
Surgical options, such as catheter ablation, may be recommended for severe cases. Routine monitoring by a healthcare provider is essential for adjusting treatment plans as needed.
Clinical Assessment for Nursing
Clinical assessment is a fundamental skill in nursing that involves gathering information to make informed decisions about patient care. When caring for patients on medications like digoxin, precise assessment can help identify adverse effects early on.
Key components of clinical assessment include:
  • Physical examination: Checking vital signs, such as heart rate, blood pressure, and respiratory rate
  • Patient history: Reviewing past medical history, medication use, and current symptoms
  • Laboratory tests: Monitoring blood levels, electrolytes, and kidney function to gauge the effectiveness and safety of medications
  • Symptom assessment: Asking detailed questions about how the patient feels, including any new or worsening symptoms
In the case of digoxin, specific assessments should focus on:
  • Heart rate and rhythm: Monitoring for any irregularities
  • Gastrointestinal symptoms: Checking for signs of nausea, vomiting, or abdominal pain
  • Neurological status: Assessing for confusion, dizziness, or vision changes
  • Overall well-being: Evaluating weight gain or loss and general physical condition
Effective clinical assessment helps create a comprehensive understanding of the patient's health, guiding timely interventions and ensuring proper medication use.

One App. One Place for Learning.

All the tools & learning materials you need for study success - in one app.

Get started for free

Most popular questions from this chapter

A pregnant woman at term comes to the labor unit saying her membranes have ruptured. Which characteristic of the client's vaginal secretions would confirm that the membranes had ruptured? The vaginal secretions: A. Are positive for glucose B. Contain red blood cells C. Turn nitrazine paper a reddish orange D. Appear fern like under the microscope when dried on a slide.

A client has COPD and a barrel chest. Which finding would the nurse expect when assessing the chest? A. Paradoxical chest movement B. Presence of a friction rub C. Decreased respiratory excursion D. Absent breath sounds

Which symptoms would the nurse expect to find when assessing a client in the prodromal stage of schizophrenia? A. social isolation and withdrawal B. impaired role function C. Speech aberration D. peculiar beliefs E. markedly odd behavior

. The nurse knows the older adult has an increased risk for drug toxicity. Which of the following contributing factors increase the risk for drug toxicity? A. Impaired renal function B. Decrease in blood flow to the kidneys C. Polypharmacy D. Urinary incontinence E. Possibility of multiple chronic conditions requiring medications F. Using many physicians and lack of communication between physicians

During discharge teaching, a client asks the nurse how the prescribed antacids relieve heart burn. The nurse’s response should be based on the knowledge that antacids work by A. decreasing the secretion of gastric acid. B. coating the stomach lining. C. thickening the mucus secreted by the stomach wall. D. neutralizing the acid present in the stomach.

See all solutions

Recommended explanations on Biology Textbooks

View all explanations

What do you think about this solution?

We value your feedback to improve our textbook solutions.

Study anywhere. Anytime. Across all devices.