Question

A nurse is assessing an older adult client who has heart failure and takes digoxin. Which of the following findings should the nurse recognize as an indication of digoxin toxicity?

A. Bradycardia
B. Increased appetite
C. Yellow-tinged vision
D. Hypertension

Answer 1

Bradycardia is a classic sign of digoxin toxicity in a patient with heart failure. Yellow-tinged vision is another symptom, while increased appetite and hypertension are not associated with digoxin toxicity.

Step-by-step explanation:

Indications of Digoxin Toxicity

When assessing an older adult client with heart failure who is taking digoxin, a nurse should recognize bradycardia as a potential indication of digoxin toxicity. Bradycardia, or a slower than normal heart rate, is a known side effect of digoxin when taken in high doses or when levels accumulate in the body due to factors like renal insufficiency. Other common symptoms of digoxin toxicity include yellow-tinged vision (xanthopsia), confusion, dizziness, and various cardiac arrhythmias, not increased appetite or hypertension. Therefore, out of the options provided, bradycardia and yellow-tinged vision are correct indications of digoxin toxicity, with bradycardia being a more classic and common sign.