The client is ordered to receive a cardiac glycoside. Which vital signs finding would make the nurse question administering this medication?

Question

1. Blood pressure 119/66
2. Apical pulse 55 beats per minute
3. Temperature 99.4°F
4. Respirations 12 breaths per minute

Answer 1

2

Rationale 1: Cardiac glycosides are held if the pulse is less than 60 bpm.
Rationale 2: If the rate is lower than 60 beats per minute, the drug should not be given.
Rationale 3: Cardiac glycosides do not have an effect on temperature.
Rationale 4: Cardiac glycosides are held if the pulse is less than 60 bpm.

Global Rationale: If the rate is lower than 60 beats per minute, the drug should not be given. Blood pressure of 119/66, a temperature of 99.4°F, and respirations of 12 breaths per minutes would not cause the nurse to hold the dose of medication.