Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 70%
Simulated
A client has had heart failure. Which intervention is most important for the nurse to implement prior to the initial administration of digoxin to this client?
Correct answer
A
Rationale
Assess the apical pulse, counting for a full 60 seconds. It is the nurse├óÔé¼Ôäós responsibility to take the client├óÔé¼Ôäós pulse before administering digoxin. The correct technique for taking an apical pulse is to use the stethoscope and listen for a full 60 seconds. Digoxin is held for a pulse below 60 beats per minute. A radial pulse, potentially less accurate, or blood pressure are not part of the initial assessment before administering an initial dose of digoxin.