Nursing Elites

1. A healthcare provider in a clinic is monitoring serum electrolytes for four older adult clients who take digoxin. Which of the following electrolyte values increases a client's risk for Digoxin toxicity?

• A. Calcium 9.2 mg/dL
• B. Calcium 10.3 mg/dL
• C. Potassium 3.4 mEq/L
• D. Potassium 4.8 mEq/L

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Potassium 3.4 mEq/L is below the expected reference range, which increases the risk for digoxin toxicity. Low potassium levels can lead to fatal dysrhythmias, particularly in older clients taking Digoxin. Hypokalemia potentiates the effects of Digoxin, making the heart more sensitive to its toxic effects. Monitoring and correcting electrolyte imbalances, especially low potassium levels, are crucial to prevent adverse effects of digoxin therapy. Calcium levels do not directly influence digoxin toxicity, so choices A and B are incorrect. High potassium levels, as in choice D, are less likely to increase the risk of digoxin toxicity compared to low potassium levels.

2. A client has a new prescription for Atorvastatin. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

• A. Take this medication with food.
• B. Avoid drinking grapefruit juice.
• C. Take this medication in the morning.
• D. Increase your intake of potassium-rich foods.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'Avoid drinking grapefruit juice.' Grapefruit juice can increase the blood levels of Atorvastatin by inhibiting its metabolism in the body, leading to a higher risk of adverse effects, such as muscle pain and liver damage. Therefore, it is important for the client to avoid consuming grapefruit juice while taking Atorvastatin. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because Atorvastatin can be taken with or without food, at any time of the day, and there is no specific need to increase potassium-rich foods while on this medication.

3. When taking Digoxin, low levels of what can cause toxicity?

• A. Potassium
• B. Calcium
• C. Sodium
• D. Magnesium

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Low potassium levels can lead to Digoxin toxicity. Digoxin competes with potassium for binding sites on the sodium-potassium pump. When potassium levels are low, there is an increased risk of Digoxin binding and toxicity. Choice B (Calcium) is incorrect because low calcium levels are not directly linked to Digoxin toxicity. Choice C (Sodium) is incorrect as low sodium levels do not cause Digoxin toxicity. Choice D (Magnesium) is incorrect as low magnesium levels do not contribute to Digoxin toxicity.

4. A client is prescribed Atorvastatin. Which of the following laboratory values should be monitored to assess for potential adverse effects?

• A. Blood glucose
• B. Creatine kinase
• C. Hemoglobin
• D. Sodium

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Creatine kinase should be monitored in clients taking Atorvastatin as it can indicate muscle damage, a serious adverse effect of statins. Elevated creatine kinase levels can suggest myopathy or rhabdomyolysis, which are potential complications associated with statin therapy. Monitoring creatine kinase levels helps in early detection of muscle damage and guides appropriate management to prevent severe complications.

5. A client with heart failure is prescribed digoxin. Which statement by the client indicates an adverse effect of the medication?

• A. I can walk a mile a day.
• B. I've had a backache for several days.
• C. I am urinating more frequently.
• D. I feel nauseated and have no appetite.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Nausea and loss of appetite are common early signs of digoxin toxicity, indicating an adverse effect of the medication. These symptoms should be reported to the healthcare provider immediately for further evaluation and management.

Similar Questions