Author Question: A mother asks why her 6-year-old requires a daily dose of digoxin that is twice that of an adult. ... (Read 23 times)

cmoore54 · **on:** Jul 23, 2018

A mother asks why her 6-year-old requires a daily dose of digoxin that is twice that of an adult. The nurse explains that the larger dose is necessary because of which characteristics of children?

a. Greater resistance to medications
b. Variations in development of drug receptors
c. A slower metabolic rate than adults
d. More total body water, which dilutes the drug

Question 2

The nurse is discussing with a patient the key points about taking an over-the-counter (OTC) medication. The nurse should include which information?

a. The medicine will maintain its potency for 3 months after the expiration date.
b. Take the medicine until it is finished.
c. If symptoms persist, stop treating yourself and see your doctor.
d. Adjust the dosage to your specific needs.

jamesnevil303 · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 23, 2018

Answer to Question 1

ANS: B
Infants and children require a total daily digoxin dose that is approximately twice that of an adult on a basis of the ratio of weight to dose. This increased requirement for digoxin is thought to be the result of a greater binding strength of the child's developing myocardial digoxin receptors.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: C
There are some basic facts health care providers should tell patients about OTC products. In particular, if they do not get well, they should stop treating themselves and talk with a health care professional. Also, the health care professional must be aware of all over-the-counter meds being taken because of the dangers of interaction.