Question

A nurse is assessing a client's vital signs prior to the administration of PO digoxin. The client's BP is 144/86 mm Hg, heart rate is 55/min, and respiratory rate is 20/min. The nurse should withhold the medication and contact the provider for which of the following findings?

A) Elevated BP.
B) Bradycardia.
C) Increased respiratory rate.
D) Decreased BP.

Answer 1

The nurse should withhold the medication and contact the provider for bradycardia, a heart rate less than 60 beats per minute.

Step-by-step explanation:

Based on the information provided, the nurse should withhold the medication and contact the provider for bradycardia, which is a heart rate less than 60 beats per minute. A heart rate of 55/min falls below the normal range of 60-100 bpm for adults. While the client's blood pressure is slightly elevated, it is not a contraindication for the administration of digoxin. The respiratory rate of 20/min is within the normal range as well.