Question

A nurse instructs a patient about signs and symptoms of digoxin toxicity. The nurse determines that teaching is successful if the patient makes which statement?

Select one:
a. "My doctor should be notified if constipation occurs."
b. "If my heart is racing, the dose may be too high."
c. "I should report any muscle weakness, nausea or visual disturbances."
d. "The dose will be reduced if I develop memory loss.

Answer 1

Teaching is successful if the patient understands to report muscle weakness, nausea, or visual disturbances, which are signs of digoxin toxicity. These symptoms warrant immediate communication with a healthcare provider to prevent serious complications.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse determines that teaching is successful if the patient says, "I should report any muscle weakness, nausea or visual disturbances." These symptoms are indicative of digoxin toxicity, which is a serious condition that can occur when the levels of the medication digoxin become too high in the body. Digoxin is commonly used to treat heart conditions, and toxicity can lead to various adverse effects, including those mentioned as well as others such as dizziness, vomiting, and in severe cases, abnormal heart rhythms.

It is important for patients to be aware of these signs to ensure they can quickly report them to their healthcare provider for assessment and appropriate adjustment of their medication regimen to prevent further complications.