Which vital sign is of greatest concern to the nurse prior to administering digoxin (Lanoxin)?

1. Heart rate
2. Temperature
3. Blood pressure
4. Respiratory rate


1
Rationale 1: An apical pulse should be checked for one full minute prior to administering digoxin. If the heart rate is low (generally 60 bpm), the medication should be held and the ordering practitioner informed. Digoxin can suppress electrical activity within the heart and lower heart rate.
Rationale 2: Temperature is not a specific concern.
Rationale 3: Blood pressure is not a specific concern.
Rationale 4: Respiratory rate is not a specific concern.
Global Rationale: An apical pulse should be checked for one full minute prior to administering digoxin. If the heart rate is low (generally 60 bpm), the medication should be held and the ordering practitioner informed. Digoxin can suppress electrical activity within the heart and lower heart rate. The remaining vital signs are not specific concerns.

Nursing

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