A newly admitted client takes digoxin 0.25 mg/day. The nurse knows that which is the serum therapeutic range for digoxin?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The therapeutic range for serum digoxin levels is typically considered to be between 1.0 to 2.5 ng/mL. This range allows for optimal therapeutic effects while minimizing the risk of toxicity. Levels below 1.0 ng/mL may be subtherapeutic, while levels above 2.5 ng/mL may increase the risk of toxicity, leading to adverse effects such as arrhythmias, nausea, vomiting, and visual disturbances. Therefore, maintaining the digoxin level within the range of 1.0 to 2.5 ng/mL is crucial for safe and effective therapy.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Cyanosis is the bluish discoloration of the skin or mucous membranes due to insufficient oxygen in the blood. It is not a typical clinical sign of hemolytic anemia. Hemolytic anemia is characterized by the premature destruction of red blood cells, leading to symptoms such as abdominal pain, hemoglobinuria (presence of hemoglobin in the urine), jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), and sometimes lower back pain due to kidney involvement. Cyanosis is more commonly associated with respiratory or cardiovascular conditions where oxygen levels are affected.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The nurse should request an order for a platelet level to assess the patient's platelet count. Warfarin (Coumadin) is an anticoagulant medication that works by interfering with the blood clotting process. Bruising and petechiae may be signs of decreased platelet count or impaired platelet function. Monitoring the platelet level will help determine if the patient's symptoms are related to thrombocytopenia (low platelet count). While the International Normalized Ratio (INR) is commonly used to monitor the effects of warfarin therapy, in this case, the presence of bruising and petechiae suggest a need to assess platelet levels specifically. PT and aPTT tests assess the clotting function of factors produced by the liver and are not directly related to platelet count. Vitamin K level may be tested in cases of suspected vitamin K deficiency, but it would not directly help in assessing

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Interferon alfa is an immunomodulatory agent that works by enhancing the immune system's ability to fight cancer. It has cytotoxic and cytostatic effects, meaning it can kill cancer cells or inhibit their growth. Additionally, it promotes the differentiation of stem cells, which can help restore normal cell function. While interferon alfa does produce cytokines and interleukins, its primary action is immunomodulation and direct effects on cancer cells. It does not primarily cause allergic reactions or produce red blood cells.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Finasteride is an FDA-approved medication for male pattern baldness (androgenetic alopecia). It works by inhibiting the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone, which is responsible for hair follicle miniaturization. Dexamethasone (A), para-aminobenzoic acid (B), and mupirocin (C) are not used to treat hair loss.