Answer:
Step-by-step explanation:
When teaching parents about the administration of digoxin, the nurse should include several important interventions and key points to ensure the safe and effective use of this medication for their child. Digoxin is commonly prescribed for children with certain heart conditions, and it's important for parents to understand how to administer it correctly. Here are some essential interventions and teaching points:
Medication Schedule: Explain the prescribed dosing schedule for digoxin. Stress the importance of giving the medication at the same time each day to maintain a consistent level in the child's bloodstream.
Dosage: Ensure that the parents understand the exact dosage prescribed by the healthcare provider. Provide clear instructions regarding the use of a measuring device, such as an oral syringe, to accurately measure the dose.
Signs and Symptoms: Educate the parents about the signs and symptoms of the child's condition that necessitate digoxin administration. These may include symptoms like rapid heartbeat, difficulty breathing, or fatigue.
Do Not Skip Doses: Emphasize that digoxin should not be skipped, even if the child seems to be feeling better. Missing doses can lead to fluctuations in blood levels and decreased effectiveness.
Avoid Overdosing: Stress the importance of not giving more than the prescribed dose. Overdosing on digoxin can be dangerous and even life-threatening.
Food Interaction: Teach parents to administer digoxin at least one hour before or two hours after meals to maximize absorption. Meals can interfere with the absorption of the medication.
Monitor Heart Rate: Instruct parents to check the child's pulse rate before giving digoxin. If the pulse is below the prescribed level (usually set by the healthcare provider), they should hold the dose and contact the healthcare provider.
Side Effects: Discuss common side effects of digoxin, such as nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite, and inform parents when to contact the healthcare provider if these occur.
Regular Follow-up: Stress the importance of regular follow-up appointments with the healthcare provider for monitoring the child's condition and adjusting the digoxin dosage if necessary.
Storage: Advise parents on proper storage of the medication, which usually involves keeping it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and out of the reach of children.
Medication Record: Encourage parents to keep a record of each dose administered, including date, time, and dosage amount. This helps ensure accurate tracking of the medication.
Review Written Materials: Provide written materials or medication guides for parents to reference at home. Ensure they understand any specific instructions or precautions related to the particular brand or formulation of digoxin prescribed.
Emergency Contact Information: Give parents emergency contact information for healthcare providers or clinics in case they have questions or concerns outside of regular office hours.
Ask for Clarification: Encourage parents to ask questions and seek clarification if they have any doubts or concerns about digoxin administration.
By providing thorough education and support, the nurse can help parents feel confident in administering digoxin safely and effectively to their child while also promoting the child's well-being.