A patient with heart failure is prescribed digoxin (Lanoxin). The ...

[rl]

A patient with heart failure is prescribed digoxin (Lanoxin). The patient reports nausea, blurry vision, and feeling like the heart is skipping beats. What is the nurse's best action?
 
  a. Administer the scheduled dose because it will correct these side effects.
  b. Assess the patient's heart rate and then administer the scheduled dose.
  c. Hold the dose and notify the prescriber immediately.
  d. Place the patient on complete bed rest.

Question 2

The nurse is conducting a patient teaching session. Which actions by the nurse indicate nonoffensive body language? (Select all that apply.)
 
  a. Using the left hand to give the patient a pencil
  b. Allowing the patient to take his or her time to answer a question
  c. Patting the patient on the arm to demonstrate a caring attitude
  d. Sitting with the nurse's head and the patient's head at the same level
  e. Moving the patient's suitcase from the chair before sitting down
  f. Indicating the patient's stomach by pointing at the nurse's stomach
  g. Placing a chair as close as possible to the patient's face to make sure each can hear the other

[kjo;oj]

Answer to Question 1

C
Nausea, blurry vision, and heart rate or rhythm changes are signs of digoxin overdose. The dose should be held and the prescriber notified. Most likely the nurse will also obtain a blood sample to measure the digoxin level. Digoxin has a very narrow therapeutic range (0.8 to 2 ng/mL) and this level should be checked whenever a patient shows any signs of toxicity. Symptoms usually resolve when the drug is held and the body eliminates it.

Answer to Question 2

B, D, F
Taking one's time to answer questions may be a sign of respect and indicate that the patient is giving the question serious consideration. Sitting at eye level with a patient can convey equality even when the patient does not look into the nurse's eyes or face. Getting too close to the face, however, is considered threatening. Pointing at the patient is considered rude or threatening by many people. Using your own anatomy for demonstration is more acceptable. Many cultures consider the left hand to be dirty and people may be offended if they or their belongings are touched with the left hand or if anything is offered using the left hand. A patient's belongings should not be touched or moved until the patient gives permission to do so.

[rl]

Thank you!

[kjo;oj]

Always glad to help...