Question

A nurse is collecting data prior to administering digoxin to a client. For which of the following findings should the nurse withhold this medication and notify the provider?

A) Digoxin level 0.9 ng/mL
B) Blood pressure 142/80 mmHg
C) Potassium 4.4 mEq/L
D) Apical pulse 52/min

Answer 1

The nurse should withhold the digoxin medication and notify the provider if the digoxin level is 0.9 ng/mL or above.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse should withhold the medication and notify the provider if the digoxin level is 0.9 ng/mL or above. Digoxin is a medication used to treat heart failure and certain heart rhythm problems. The therapeutic range for digoxin is typically between 0.5-2 ng/mL, so a level of 0.9 ng/mL is within the therapeutic range.

The blood pressure of 142/80 mmHg is slightly elevated, but it is not a contraindication for administering digoxin. Potassium levels of 4.4 mEq/L are within the normal range and do not require withholding digoxin. An apical pulse rate of 52/min is considered within the normal range for an adult, so it does not warrant withholding the medication.