Which are expected effects of cardiac glycosides? (Select all ...

[yoroshambo]

Which are expected effects of cardiac glycosides? (Select all that apply.)
 
  a. Decreased cardiac output
  b. Decreased force of contraction
  c. Decreased heart rate
  d. Modulation of neurohormonal systems
  e. Positive inotropic effects

Question 2

A patient has been taking digoxin (Lanoxin) 0.25 mg, and furosemide (Lasix) 40 mg, daily. Upon routine assessment by the nurse, the patient states, I see yellow halos around the lights.
 
  The nurse should perform which action based on this assessment?
  a. Check the patient for other symptoms of digitalis toxicity.
  b. Withhold the next dose of furosemide.
  c. Continue to monitor the patient for heart failure.
  d. Document the findings and reassess in 1 hour.

[Dominic]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: C, D, E
Digoxin slows the heart rate, modulates the activity of neurohormonal systems, and increases the force of contraction. It does not decrease cardiac output or reduce the force of contraction.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: A
Yellow halos around lights indicate digoxin toxicity. The use of furosemide increases the risk of hypokalemia, which in turn potentiates digoxin toxicity. The patient should also be assessed for headache, nausea, and vomiting, and blood should be drawn for measurement of the serum digoxin level. The nurse should not withhold the dose of furosemide until further assessment is done, including measurement of a serum digoxin level. No evidence indicates that the patient is in worsening heart failure. Documentation of findings is secondary to further assessment and prevention of digoxin toxicity.

[yoroshambo]

Excellent

[kjohnson]

Gracias!