The nurse is preparing to administer medication to a patient taking betamethasone. Which additional drug, when administered concurrently with betamethasone, would put the patient at risk for cardiotoxicity?
a. Furosemide (Lasix)
b. Calcium carbonate
c. Digoxin (Lanoxin)
d. Insulin
C
Concurrent use of betamethasone and digoxin would put the patient at risk for cardiotoxicity as a result of hypokalemia, which increases the risk of digoxin-induced dysrhythmias.
Furosemide with betamethasone could result in some slight alterations in electrolytes but should not lead to toxicity.
Calcium carbonate is an antacid and should not predispose the patient to cardiotoxicity.
Glucose levels may be affected but should not lead to cardiotoxicity.
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