Question

A nurse is conducting therapeutic medication monitoring on four clients. Which of the following findings should be immediately reported to the provider?

A. Lithium carbonate 0.8 mEq/L
B. Digoxin 3.0 ng/mL
C. Peak serum gentamicin 6 mcg/mL
D. Magnesium sulfate 4 mEq/L

Answer 1

The nurse should report the digoxin level of 3.0 ng/mL due to its potential toxicity; the other medication values are within normal ranges.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse should immediately report the finding of digoxin 3.0 ng/mL to the provider. This level is above the typical therapeutic range for digoxin, which is usually between 0.5 to 2.0 ng/mL, and could indicate digoxin toxicity, a serious condition requiring prompt medical attention. The other values listed, such as lithium carbonate 0.8 mEq/L, peak serum gentamicin 6 mcg/mL, and magnesium sulfate 4 mEq/L, are generally within normal therapeutic ranges, although close monitoring is still necessary for all medications.