A nurse is preparing to administer digoxin to a pediatric client who has heart failure. Which of the following actions is appropriate?
Instructing the client to eat foods that are low in potassium.
Repeat the dose if the client spits it out.
Measuring apical pulse rate for 30 seconds before administration.
Evaluating the client for nausea, vomiting, and anorexia.
The Correct Answer is C
A. Clients on digoxin should actually have an adequate intake of potassium, as low potassium levels can increase the risk of digoxin toxicity.
B. If a pediatric client spits out digoxin, the dose should not be repeated automatically; instead, the nurse should assess the situation and follow the facility's protocol regarding missed doses.
C. Measuring the apical pulse for one full minute before administering digoxin is critical; if the pulse is below the established threshold (usually <60 bpm for children), the medication should be held and the provider notified.
D. While evaluating for nausea, vomiting, and anorexia is important, it is not an appropriate immediate action before administering the medication. The priority action is to assess the apical pulse.
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Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Enforcing strict bed rest without any physical activity can lead to feelings of isolation and boredom, which may negatively affect the child's well-being and engagement.
B. Allowing the child to decorate their hospital room with personal items fosters a sense of ownership and comfort, helping to promote emotional well-being and engagement during hospitalization.
C. Limiting visits can increase feelings of loneliness and anxiety in the child, which is not conducive to their emotional health; maintaining social connections is important for well-being.
D. Using medical terms may confuse the child and does not support their understanding or engagement; explanations should be age-appropriate and easily understood.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) typically has identifiable P waves; the absence of P waves suggests a different condition.
B. Atrial fibrillation is characterized by an irregular rhythm, inability to identify P waves, and varying intervals. This interpretation aligns with the client's ECG findings.
C. Sinus bradycardia would show identifiable P waves and a regular rhythm with a heart rate less than 60 bpm, which does not match the provided information.
D. First-degree heart block would also show identifiable P waves and regularity in the rhythm with a prolonged PR interval, which is not indicated here.