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A client with heart failure has Lanoxin (digoxin) ordered. What would the nurse expect to find when evaluating for the therapeutic effectiveness of this drug? A) diaphoresis with decreased urinary output B) increased heart rate with increase respirations C) improved respiratory status and increased urinary output D) decreased chest pain and decreased blood pressure

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Final answer:

The therapeutic effectiveness of Lanoxin (digoxin) is expected to be reflected in improved respiratory status and increased urinary output as a result of reduced strain on the heart and better elimination of excess fluid.

Step-by-step explanation:

The medication in question, Lanoxin (digoxin) is used for treating heart failure and certain types of heart rhythm disorders. It works by affecting the sodium and potassium levels inside heart cells, which in turn reduces the strain on the heart and helps it maintain a normal, steady, and strong rhythm.

Given this information, the nurse would expect to see an improvement in the patient's respiratory status and an increase in urinary output (Answer C), which signifies improved heart efficiency and enhanced elimination of excess fluid from the body. This is important in managing heart failure where the heart's pumping efficiency is compromised.

The other potential effects, like diaphoresis, increased heart rate, decreased blood pressure and chest pain, are typically off-target effects or manifestations of severe heart failure or drug toxicity rather than signs of therapeutic effectiveness.

Learn more about Lanoxin (digoxin)

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