The nurse is preparing to administer digoxin to a patient who is newly admitted to the intensive care unit. The nurse reviews the patient's admission electrolytes and notes a serum potassium level of 2.9 mEq/L. Which action by the nurse is correct?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A serum potassium level of 2.9 mEq/L is considered hypokalemia, which increases the risk of digoxin toxicity. Therefore, the nurse should hold the digoxin dose and notify the provider of the patient's lab values. The provider may order potassium replacement therapy to resolve the hypokalemia before administering digoxin. Administering digoxin with low potassium levels can cause life-threatening arrhythmias.

The Nurse Is Preparing to Administer Digoxin to a Patient