The nurse is reviewing discharge teaching for a patient who will be taking digoxin (Lanoxin) therapy. The nurse will teach the patient to avoid which foods when taking the digoxin?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Consuming high amounts of foods rich in potassium, such as leafy green vegetables, can potentially decrease the effectiveness of digoxin. Digoxin works by helping the heart beat more strongly and regularly, but too much potassium in the body can interfere with its action. Therefore, patients taking digoxin are usually advised to avoid consuming excessive amounts of foods high in potassium, such as leafy green vegetables. It is recommended for patients on digoxin therapy to maintain a consistent level of potassium in their diet and follow their healthcare provider's guidance on dietary restrictions.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: It is recommended for the patient to take Digoxin in the morning when awakening. This is because Digoxin has a long half-life which means it stays in the body for a long period of time. By taking it in the morning, the patient can benefit from its effects throughout the day, including its ability to slow down the heart rate and improve heart function. Additionally, taking it in the morning helps to reduce the risk of potential interactions with other medications or food consumed later in the day.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer, option A, is to assess lung sounds, pulse, and blood pressure before administering Albuterol because this medication is a bronchodilator used to treat bronchospasms in conditions like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Assessing these parameters helps the nurse establish a baseline and monitor for potential adverse effects such as tachycardia and hypertension, which are common with bronchodilators like Albuterol. Option B, monitoring for changes in behavior, is incorrect because behavior changes are not typically associated with Albuterol use. This distractor does not align with the expected nursing interventions for a patient receiving this medication. Option C, observing for paradoxical bronchospasms, is incorrect because paradoxical bronchospasms are a rare but possible side effect of Albuterol. However, the primary concern with Albuterol administration is not the development of paradoxical bronchospasms but rather monitoring the patient's response to the medication and assessing for common side effects. Option D, assessing for abdominal distention, is also incorrect because this symptom is not typically associated with Albuterol use. Abdominal distention is more commonly seen with gastrointestinal issues or conditions unrelated to bronchodilator therapy. In an educational context, understanding the rationale behind assessing lung sounds, pulse, and blood pressure before administering Albuterol is crucial for nursing students to provide safe and effective care to patients with respiratory conditions. By recognizing the importance of these assessments, students can apply their knowledge to other medications with similar mechanisms of action and potential side effects.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The nurse suggests that the patient takes his Digoxin medication when awakening because it is best absorbed when taken on an empty stomach. Taking Digoxin with meals can decrease its absorption, reducing its effectiveness. Therefore, to ensure optimal absorption and effectiveness of Digoxin in slowing down the heart rate, it is recommended to take it when awakening on an empty stomach.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Lithium is typically administered orally (PO) for long-term treatment of bipolar disorder. However, in emergency situations or cases of lithium toxicity where rapid control of symptoms is required, lithium can be administered via the intravenous (IV) route for faster absorption and effectiveness. IV administration allows for quick delivery of the medication directly into the bloodstream to achieve therapeutic levels promptly. It is essential to closely monitor lithium levels and kidney function when administering it intravenously to prevent potential complications.