Final answer:
The nurse assesses a patient's vital signs, especially the heart rate, before administering digoxin, which can affect heart rhythms, to personalize and ensure safe treatment.
Step-by-step explanation:
The vital signs are essential indicators of a patient's health status, particularly before the administration of medications such as digoxin, which is often prescribed orally for heart conditions. Before giving digoxin, a nurse must assess these vital statistics to ensure the patient's safety and to tailor the treatment plan accordingly. Vital signs include blood pressure, heart rate, respiratory rate, and temperature. Special attention should be given to the heart rate because digoxin can affect the heart's rhythm and function.
Assessing vital signs provides a baseline before administering medical interventions. An abnormal heart rate or blood pressure can indicate an increased risk of complications when taking digoxin, making it crucial for healthcare professionals to have an accurate record of the patient's current state. For example, a low heart rate might lead to the nurse withholding the medication and consulting with a physician. This thorough assessment is part of a broader safety protocol followed by medical teams to prevent errors and ensure patient safety.