A nurse is assisting in the plan of care for a client who is receiving digoxin to treat heart failure. Which of the following actions should the nurse plan to take?
Measure the client's apical pulse rate for 30 seconds before administration.
Withhold the medication if the client's heart rate is above 100/min.
Instruct the client to eat foods that are low in potassium.
Monitor the client for nausea, vomiting, and yellow vision.
The Correct Answer is D
A. The nurse should measure the apical pulse for a full minute (not 30 seconds) before administering digoxin. If the pulse is below 60 beats per minute, the medication should be withheld, making this option incomplete.
B. Digoxin should be withheld if the heart rate is below 60/min, not above 100/min. This statement does not reflect proper nursing protocol.
C. Clients taking digoxin should maintain adequate potassium levels, so advising low potassium intake is incorrect. Foods rich in potassium are encouraged.
D. Monitoring for symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and yellow vision is essential, as these may indicate digoxin toxicity, making this option correct.
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Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Monitoring electrolyte levels is important but is not as immediate as ensuring airway patency.
B. Performing passive range of motion is beneficial for mobility but does not address the immediate needs of an unconscious patient.
C. Suctioning saliva from the client's mouth is the highest priority intervention, as maintaining airway clearance is critical to prevent aspiration and ensure adequate ventilation.
D. Recording intake and output is necessary for overall assessment but is not as urgent as managing the airway.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Black cohosh is typically used for menopausal symptoms and does not have a known effect on walking distance in peripheral arterial disease.
B. Echinacea is primarily used to boost the immune system and treat colds, not for vascular conditions.
C. Saw palmetto is commonly used for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and does not have evidence supporting its use for peripheral arterial disease.
D. Ginkgo biloba has been shown to improve blood flow and may help increase pain-free walking distance in clients with peripheral arterial disease by enhancing peripheral circulation.