The nurse suspects drug toxicity in the patient who has been receiving lidocaine by infusion over the past 2 days to control a ventricular arrhythmia. What assessment would the nurse perform to determine the accuracy of the suspicion of toxicity?
A) Neurological assessment
B) Serum lidocaine level
C) Renal function studies
D) Hepatic function studies
B
Feedback:
If lidocaine is used for ventricular arrhythmias related to cardiac surgery or digoxin toxicity, serum levels should be monitored regularly to determine the appropriate dose and to avoid the potential for serious proarrhythmias and other adverse effects. Neurological assessment may indicate adverse effects but would not confirm lidocaine toxicity. Renal and hepatic function would not confirm lidocaine toxicity.
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