which lab value should be monitored in a patient on digoxin

ATI RN

ATI RN Comprehensive Exit Exam

1. Which lab value should be monitored in a patient on digoxin?

A. Monitor potassium levels
B. Monitor calcium levels
C. Monitor digoxin levels
D. Monitor sodium levels

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is to monitor digoxin levels in a patient on digoxin. Digoxin is a medication commonly used to treat heart conditions, and monitoring its levels in the blood is crucial to ensure that the patient is within the therapeutic range and to prevent toxicity. Monitoring potassium levels (Choice A) is important due to the potential of digoxin-induced hypokalemia, but the primary focus should be on monitoring digoxin levels. Monitoring calcium levels (Choice B) and sodium levels (Choice D) are not directly related to digoxin therapy and are not the primary lab values of concern when administering digoxin.

2. Which medication is used to manage hyperthyroidism?

A. Levothyroxine
B. Methimazole
C. Propylthiouracil
D. Prednisone

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Methimazole is the correct answer. It is commonly used to manage hyperthyroidism by inhibiting the production of thyroid hormones. Levothyroxine (Choice A) is actually a medication used to treat hypothyroidism by supplementing thyroid hormones. Propylthiouracil (Choice C) is another anti-thyroid medication used in the management of hyperthyroidism. Prednisone (Choice D) is a corticosteroid and is not typically used in the treatment of hyperthyroidism.

3. A nurse is assessing a client who is postoperative following a gastric bypass. Which of the following findings should the nurse report to the provider?

A. Heart rate of 78/min
B. Oxygen saturation of 95%
C. Urine output of 30 mL/hr
D. Serosanguineous wound drainage

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In a postoperative client, a urine output of 30 mL/hr is a concerning finding as it indicates oliguria, which may suggest dehydration or kidney impairment. Adequate urine output is essential for monitoring renal function and overall fluid status. A heart rate of 78/min is within the normal range for an adult. An oxygen saturation of 95% is acceptable and indicates adequate oxygenation. Serosanguineous wound drainage is expected in the early postoperative period and is not a cause for immediate concern unless it becomes excessive or changes character.

4. A nurse is providing discharge teaching to a client who has a new prescription for digoxin. Which of the following statements by the client indicates an understanding of the teaching?

A. I will take my pulse before taking this medication.
B. I should take this medication with food to prevent nausea.
C. I will take this medication if my heart rate is less than 60/min.
D. I should take this medication with food if I am not feeling well.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. Taking the pulse before taking digoxin is crucial as it helps monitor the heart rate, as digoxin can cause bradycardia as a side effect. Option B is incorrect because digoxin should be taken on an empty stomach to enhance absorption. Option C is incorrect because digoxin should be held and the healthcare provider should be contacted if the heart rate is less than 60/min. Option D is incorrect because digoxin should not be taken with food due to decreased absorption.

5. A nurse is providing dietary teaching to a client who has chronic pancreatitis. Which of the following foods should the nurse instruct the client to avoid?

A. Baked chicken
B. Grilled salmon
C. Steamed broccoli
D. Fried foods

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Clients with chronic pancreatitis should avoid fried foods because they are high in fat, which can exacerbate symptoms and lead to further complications. Baked chicken (choice A), grilled salmon (choice B), and steamed broccoli (choice C) are generally healthier options and can be included in a low-fat diet suitable for individuals with chronic pancreatitis.