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.
Free Nursing Test Bank
- Free Pharmacology Quiz 1
- Free Medical-Surgical Quiz 2
- Free Fundamentals Quiz 3
- Free Maternal-Newborn Quiz 4
- Free Anatomy and Physiology Quiz 5
- Free Obstetrics and Pediatrics Quiz 6
- Free Fluid and Electrolytes Quiz 7
- Free Community Health Quiz 8
- Free Promoting Health across the Lifespan Quiz 9
- Free Multidimensional Care Quiz 10
View Related questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Furosemide is a loop diuretic that can cause potassium loss; therefore, it is essential for the child to eat potassium-rich foods to prevent hypokalemia.
B. Taking furosemide at bedtime is not advisable due to the increased risk of nocturia and sleep disturbances from frequent urination.
C. Aspirin is not recommended without medical guidance, especially for children, as it can increase the risk of Reye's syndrome.
D. Expecting swelling in the hands and feet contradicts the purpose of furosemide, which is to reduce fluid overload; parents should report any unexpected swelling to the healthcare provider.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Secondary prevention involves early detection and prompt intervention in health issues that have already occurred; providing education about stress does not fall under this category.
B. Suicide prevention is a specific aspect of mental health care and is not directly related to general stress education.
C. Primary prevention aims to prevent the onset of health issues and promote health and well-being, making the education on stress and its effects a form of primary prevention.
D. Tertiary prevention focuses on rehabilitation and management of existing diseases, which does not apply to teaching about stress effects.