A nurse is preparing to administer digoxin (Lanoxin) to a ...

[Awilson837]

A nurse is preparing to administer digoxin (Lanoxin) to a patient. The patient's heart rate is 62 beats per minute, and the blood pressure is 120/60 mm Hg. The last serum electrolyte value showed a potassium level of 5.2 mEq/L.
 
  What will the nurse do?
  a. Contact the provider to request an increased dose of digoxin.
  b. Give the dose of digoxin and notify the provider of the potassium level.
  c. Request an order for a diuretic.
  d. Withhold the dose and notify the provider of the heart rate.

Question 2

A patient with Stage C heart failure (HF) who has been taking an ACE inhibitor, a beta blocker, and a diuretic begins to have increased dyspnea, weight gain, and decreased urine output.
 
  The provider orders spironolactone (Aldactone). The nurse will make sure that the patient:
  a. does not take potassium supplements.
  b. monitors for a decreased heart rate.
  c. takes extra fluids.
  d. uses a salt substitute instead of salt.

[Dunkey]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: B
The patient's serum potassium level is above normal limits, but only slightly. An elevated potassium level can reduce the effects of digoxin, so there is no risk of toxicity. There is no indication that an increased dose of digoxin is needed. There is no indication for a diuretic. The heart rate is acceptable; doses should be withheld if the heart rate is less than 60 beats per minute.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: A
Spironolactone is added to therapy for patients with worsening symptoms of HF. Because spironolactone is a potassium-sparing diuretic, patients should not take supplemental potassium. Patients taking digoxin need to monitor their heart rate. Extra fluids are not indicated. Salt substitutes contain potassium.

[Awilson837]

Both answers were spot on, thank you once again

[Dunkey]

Great! Please up vote