A patient who is taking digoxin (Lanoxin) is admitted with possible hypokalemia. What should the nurse realize might occur with this patient?
1. Digoxin toxicity may occur.
2. A higher dose of digoxin (Lanoxin) may be needed.
3. A diuretic may be needed.
4. Fluid volume deficit may occur.
Correct Answer: 1
Hypokalemia increases the risk of digitalis toxicity in patients who receive this drug for heart failure. More digoxin is not needed. A diuretic may cause further fluid loss. There is inadequate information to assess for concerns related to fluid volume deficits.
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After starting a patient with Grave's disease on an antithyroid agent such as methimazole, patient monitoring includes TSH and free T4 every:
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