Question

2. What are the signs and symptoms of digoxin toxicity and how would the nurse assess for these symptoms? In your response, be sure to include specific body systems.

Answer 1

Digoxin toxicity occurs as a result of large amounts or long term use of the serum digoxin.

Symptoms include those which affects the central nervous system and they include headache, dizziness, nerve pain and confusion.

Gastrointestinal symptoms include dizziness and irritation , vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea.

Cardiac symptoms include palpitations, slow heart rate/ low blood pressure

The Nurse would have to assess the different symptoms present in the patient . She would also have to ensure that ECG is carried out together with the monitoring of the digoxin, creatinine levels. Minerals such as potassium and magnesium levels should also be checked.