A client has been ordered a loading dose of a cardiac glycoside for an exacerbation of heart failure.When the client comments, "I usually take a much lower dose," the nurse responds:

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

C) The purpose of a loading dose is to rapidly achieve therapeutic blood levels of a medication, especially when starting treatment for conditions like heart failure where quick intervention is needed. This does not necessarily mean the usual dose is ineffective or that higher doses reduce side effects, but rather that a quick elevation of drug levels in the blood is required for immediate effect.

A Client Has Been Ordered a Loading Dose of a Cardiac