A client is currently taking Lasix and digoxin. As a result of ...

[Alygatorr01285]

A client is currently taking Lasix and digoxin. As a result of the medication regimen, the nurse is alert to the presence of:
 
  1. Cardiac dysrhythmias
  2. Severe diarrhea
  3. Hyperactive reflexes
  4. Peripheral cyanosis

Question 2

A client has intravenous therapy for the administration of antibiotics and is stating that the IV site hurts and is swollen. Which of the following information assessed on the client indicates the presence of phlebitis, as opposed to infiltration?
 
  1. Intensity of the pain
  2. Warmth of integument surrounding the IV site
  3. Amount of subcutaneous edema
  4. Skin discoloration of a bruised nature

[bitingbit]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: 1
Lasix is a nonpotassium-sparing diuretic. Without a potassium supplement the client may be-come hypokalemic. Hypokalemia increases the risk for digoxin toxicity. Both hypokalemia and digoxin toxicity can cause cardiac dysrhythmias. Clients with hypokalemia from diuretic use may experience intestinal distention and decreased bowel sounds. Severe diarrhea may be a cause of hypokalemia, not a result of hypokalemia. Clients with hyperactive reflexes may have hy-pocalcemia. Lasix and digoxin do not predispose a client to hypocalcemia. Peripheral cyanosis is not a potential problem related to the client's medication regimen.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: 2
Signs of phlebitis may include increased temperature over the vein, erythema, pain, and edema. With phlebitis, the area is warm to the touch; with infiltration, the area is cool to the touch. The intensity of pain is not a differentiating factor between phlebitis and infiltration. Pain may occur with both. The amount of subcutaneous edema is not a differentiating factor between phlebitis and infiltration. Edema may occur with both. Skin discoloration of a bruised nature is not the best way to differentiate phlebitis from infiltration. With phlebitis, the area is typically reddened. With infiltration, the area is typically pale.

[Alygatorr01285]

Excellent

[dantucker]

TYSM