The nurse is caring for an 82-year-old patient who takes digoxin to treat chronic atrial fibrillation. When caring for this patient, to monitor for drug side effects, what will the nurse will carefully assess?

a. Blood pressure
b. Heart rate
c. Oxygen saturation
d. Respiratory rate


ANS: B
Most of digoxin is eliminated by the kidneys, so a decline in kidney function can cause digoxin accumulation, which can cause bradycardia. Digoxin should not be given to any patient with a pulse less than 60 beats per minute.

Nursing

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A) True B) False

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Immediately after birth the woman's cardiac output is 60–80% higher than prelabour levels. This is due to all of the following except:

a. reduced gravid uterus pressure leading to improved venacaval blood flow. b. increased parasympathetic stimulation leading to reduced vascular resistance. c. autotransfusion of uteroplacental blood into the maternal circulation. d. mobilisation of extracellular fluid.

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A nurse is taking care of an older client in the nursing home. Which statement by the client is concerning?

A) "I have to take B12 shots now; I have gastritis." B) "Chewing is difficult; I have to have my food cut up." C) "I get up slowly in the morning; I take blood pressure pills." D) "I can't open this jar; I have arthritis in my fingers."

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