The nurse is caring for a newly admitted patient who will receive digoxin to treat a cardiac dysrhythmia. The patient takes hydrochlorothiazide (HydroDIURIL) and reports regular use of over-the-counter laxatives
Before administering the first dose of digoxin, the nurse will review the patient's electrolytes with careful attention to the levels of which electrolytes?
a. Calcium and magnesium
b. Sodium and calcium
c. Potassium and chloride
d. Potassium and magnesium
ANS: D
Hypomagnesemia, like hypokalemia, enhances the action of digitalis and causes digitalis toxicity. Laxatives and diuretics can deplete both of these electrolytes.
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