Final answer:
Withholding the dose of digoxin (Lanoxin) if the infant's heart rate is below 100 bpm is an appropriate nursing action, considering the sensitivity of infants' heart rates to the drug and the potential for toxicity with incorrect dosing.
Step-by-step explanation:
An appropriate nursing action related to the administration of digoxin (Lanoxin) to an infant would be to withhold the dose if the heart rate is below 100 bpm. This is crucial because digoxin affects the heart, and infants typically have faster heart rates. Giving digoxin when the heart rate is too low could lead to further heart rate reduction, causing potential harm. Therefore, before administering digoxin, it is essential to check the infant's heart rate to prevent complications.
When considering dosage and route of administration, it is important to factor in the patient's mass in pediatrics. With changes in drug metabolism due to organ dysfunction such as in liver or kidney diseases, drug levels might increase, heightening the risk of toxicity. Thus, nurses must closely monitor vital signs and the patient’s medical history to adjust the dose or the dosage interval appropriately to minimize side effects.