A client has a new prescription for Digoxin. Which of the following findings should the nurse identify as a potential sign of Digoxin toxicity?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is A) Nausea, as a potential sign of Digoxin toxicity. Digoxin is a medication commonly used to treat heart conditions like heart failure and atrial fibrillation. It works by increasing the force of the heart's contractions. However, an overdose or toxicity of Digoxin can lead to various adverse effects, including gastrointestinal symptoms like nausea and vomiting. Option B) Dry mouth is not typically associated with Digoxin toxicity. Dry mouth is a common side effect of various medications, but it is not a specific indicator of Digoxin toxicity. Option C) Hypoglycemia is not a typical sign of Digoxin toxicity. While Digoxin toxicity can lead to changes in electrolyte levels, hypoglycemia is not a direct effect of Digoxin toxicity. Option D) Tinnitus is a classic sign of Digoxin toxicity. Tinnitus, along with visual disturbances like blurred or yellow vision, are common neurological manifestations of Digoxin toxicity. Educationally, understanding the signs and symptoms of Digoxin toxicity is crucial for nurses and healthcare professionals to provide safe and effective care to patients taking this medication. Recognition of these signs can prompt timely interventions to prevent serious complications associated with Digoxin toxicity.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: St. John's wort can reduce the effectiveness of Warfarin by interacting with its metabolism pathways, potentially leading to decreased anticoagulant effects. Therefore, clients on Warfarin therapy should avoid St. John's wort. While echinacea, garlic, and ginseng are also herbal supplements that can interact with Warfarin, St. John's wort is particularly known for its significant impact on Warfarin metabolism.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In pharmacology, understanding the administration instructions for medications is crucial to ensure their effectiveness and avoid potential adverse effects. In the case of Ferrous sulfate, which is an iron supplement commonly prescribed for iron deficiency anemia, the correct instruction is to take it on an empty stomach. The rationale behind taking Ferrous sulfate on an empty stomach is that iron absorption is enhanced in an acidic environment, which is present in the stomach. Food can decrease the absorption of iron, especially if it contains components that bind to iron, such as calcium in dairy products (milk), which is why option A is incorrect. Option C, taking the medication before bedtime, is also not recommended as lying down after taking iron supplements can increase the risk of gastrointestinal side effects like nausea and heartburn. Option D, taking the medication with antacids, is incorrect because antacids can reduce the acidity in the stomach, thereby decreasing iron absorption. Educationally, understanding the rationale behind the timing of medication administration is essential for nursing students and healthcare professionals to ensure safe and effective patient care. Providing accurate instructions to patients regarding medication administration can significantly impact treatment outcomes and patient compliance.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is to instruct the client to monitor for signs of dehydration when taking Losartan. Losartan can lead to dehydration, so it is crucial for the client to watch out for symptoms like dry mouth, increased thirst, and reduced urine output. Monitoring for these signs can help prevent complications associated with dehydration while taking this medication.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct instruction for a client with a new prescription for Simvastatin is to avoid drinking grapefruit juice. Grapefruit juice can inhibit the metabolism of Simvastatin, leading to increased blood levels of the drug and a higher risk of adverse effects such as muscle pain and liver damage. It is important to educate the client about this potential interaction to ensure the safe and effective use of the medication.