The nurse is caring for a patient recently admitted to the ICU with heart disease. Which adverse effect of digoxin is considered the most life-threatening if digoxin (Lanoxin) toxicity develops?
a. Dysrhythmias
b. Heart murmur
c. Slow respiratory rate
d. Tachycardia
ANS: A
Dysrhythmias are the most serious adverse effect of digoxin. Patients should be monitored frequently for changes in heart rate (bradycardia) and rhythm (A-V conduction problems).
A heart murmur is not an indication of digoxin toxicity, nor is a slow respiratory rate.
Bradycardia is a more accurate indication of digoxin toxicity than tachycardia.
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