What is the most appropriate nursing consideration for a patient who is prescribed verapamil [Calan] and digoxin [Lanoxin]?
A. Restrict intake of oral fluids and high-fiber food.
B. Take an apical pulse for 30 seconds before administration.
C. Notify the healthcare provider of nausea, vomiting, and visual changes.
D. Hold the medications if the heart rate is greater than 110 beats per minute.
Ans: C. Notify the healthcare provider of nausea, vomiting, and visual changes.
Explanation: Verapamil can raise digoxin blood serum levels, increasing the risk of digoxin toxicity. Symptoms of digoxin toxicity may include nausea, vomiting, and visual changes. Increase intake of oral fluids and high-fiber food to decrease the adverse effect of constipation. An apical pulse should be taken for a full minute prior to administering digoxin. Verapamil and digoxin can cause bradycardia not tachycardia.
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