Critical Care Nursing Exam Questions Related

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The nurse obtains the pulse rate of 89 beats/minute for an infant before administering digoxin (Lanoxin). Which action should the nurse take?

  • A. Withhold the medication and contact the healthcare provider.
  • B. Give the medication dosage as scheduled.
  • C. Assess respiratory rate for one minute next.
  • D. Wait 30 minutes and give half of the dosage of medication.
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. Infants typically have higher resting heart rates than adults, so a pulse rate of 89 beats/minute for an infant may indicate bradycardia. Digoxin can further lower the heart rate, leading to potential adverse effects like arrhythmias. Therefore, withholding the medication and contacting the healthcare provider is crucial to ensure the safety of the infant.

Choice B is incorrect because administering digoxin without addressing the elevated pulse rate can be dangerous. Choice C is incorrect as assessing respiratory rate does not address the immediate concern of the elevated pulse rate. Choice D is also incorrect as waiting and giving half of the dosage may further exacerbate the situation.