The nurse assigned to the cardiovascular unit receives various complaints from patients diagnosed with heart failure. These patients are all taking digoxin (digitalis). Which of the following reports would concern the nurse the most?
Explanation
Answer: A - Among the reported responses to the drug, visual disturbance is considered to be the most serious. This symptom, coupled with heart block, syncope, severe skin rash, anorexia and diarrhea, indicates digitalis toxicity. Digitalis toxicity occurs when the drug level in the blood reaches more than 0.8 to 2.0 nanograms per milliliter. The nurse should immediately notify the physician because this could easily result in arrhythmia and death if not treated appropriately. Headaches, malaise, and mild nausea and vomiting are unpleasant side effects of digoxin.
