Question

The nurse is providing care for a client who is receiving digoxin (Lanoxin). Which of the following symptoms should the nurse recognize as digoxin (Lanoxin) toxicity? a. Hyperkalemia b. Increased hunger c. Constipation d. Visual disturbances

Short answer

The nurse should recognize 'Visual disturbances' as a symptom of digoxin toxicity.

Step-by-step solution

Understanding Digoxin Toxicity

Recognize that digoxin toxicity is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition. Symptoms result from excessive levels of digoxin and can include gastrointestinal, neurological, and cardiovascular disturbances.

Identifying the Symptoms of Digoxin Toxicity

Review the common symptoms of digoxin toxicity, which include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, confusion, weakness, dizziness, and visual disturbances such as blurred vision, yellow or green halos around lights.

Comparing Symptoms with Options

Match the known symptoms of digoxin toxicity with the options provided. Determine that the only option that aligns with the symptoms of digoxin toxicity is 'Visual disturbances'.

Key concepts

Nursing Pharmacology

Understanding the essentials of nursing pharmacology is crucial when managing medications like digoxin (Lanoxin), often used in treating heart conditions. Pharmacology isn't just about drug administration; it's about comprehending drug actions, uses, side effects, and interactions.

For nurses, this includes recognizing symptoms of drug toxicity. With digoxin, toxicity can occur if the dose is too high or the drug accumulates over time. It's essential to monitor drug levels and patient responses, as early detection of symptoms can prevent life-threatening complications.

As a nurse, maintaining up-to-date knowledge through resources like drug guides, continuing education, and collaborating with pharmacists can ensure safe and effective pharmacological care.

NCLEX-RN Examination Preparation

Preparing for the NCLEX-RN examination requires a comprehensive understanding of pharmacology, including drugs like digoxin. Effective study strategies should include reviewing drug classes, mechanisms of action, therapeutic effects, and potential adverse reactions.

Focus on active learning techniques, such as practicing with NCLEX-style questions that involve recognizing symptoms of toxicity. Use scenario-based learning to enhance critical thinking skills, encouraging you to apply knowledge in clinical situations, just like with identifying digoxin toxicity symptoms.

Engaging in study groups and utilizing NCLEX prep courses or materials can also reinforce your pharmacology knowledge, helping you excel in the pharmacological aspects of nursing care on the exam.

Pharmacological Nursing Care

Pharmacological nursing care revolves around the safe administration of medications and the assessment of their effects on patients. When it comes to drugs with narrow therapeutic windows like digoxin, it's imperative for nurses to monitor for any signs of adverse effects, such as toxicity.

Assessment includes observing clinical manifestations, reviewing lab results for drug levels, and understanding patient-specific factors that may affect drug metabolism. Effective communication with patients, providing education on recognizing and reporting symptoms of toxicity, is also a fundamental part of pharmacological care.