The nurse is caring for a 3-year-old girl who has a congenital heart anomaly. The patient's current medications include digoxin and furosemide (Lasix). The apical pulse rate is 100 beats/min. Which action will the nurse take?
a. Administer the medication.
b. Contact the pediatric cardiologist for further orders.
c. Hold the digoxin.
d. Request that another unit nurse assess the child.
ANS: A
A pulse rate of 100 beats/min in a child who is 3 years old is considered acceptable. Administration of the medication is appropriate. There is no indication for contacting the cardiologist, holding the dose, or requesting further assessment because this is within the expected range.
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