The client who is to receive cardioversion in 3 days for treatment of continuous atrial fibrillation has laboratory values of Na 139 mEq/L, K 4.0 mEq/L, and Cl 98 mEq/L and is receiving digoxin 0.125 mg daily. Before the procedure the nurse would
a. confirm an order for a digoxin level before cardioversion.
b. monitor blood pressure more frequently.
c. notify the physician regarding the potassium level.
d. proceed with preparation for cardioversion.
A
If the client has been taking a digitalis preparation, a therapeutic drug level must be present. Di-gitalis toxicity may predispose the client to the development of ventricular dysrhythmias during cardioversion.
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