A nurse is collecting data from an infant who has heart failure and is taking digoxin. The nurse should identify which of the following findings as an indication of digoxin toxicity?
Explanation & Rationale
A. Edema: Edema can occur with heart failure, but it is not specifically an indication of digoxin toxicity. Digoxin helps improve heart function and reduce edema, so it is not a direct sign of toxicity. B. Jaundice: Jaundice may indicate liver dysfunction, but it is not a common sign of digoxin toxicity. Liver function issues can arise from various causes, but jaundice is not typically associated with digoxin toxicity. C. Purulent sputum: Purulent sputum suggests an infection, such as pneumonia, and is not related to digoxin toxicity. This symptom requires further evaluation for respiratory infections, not digoxin-related issues. D. Bradycardia: Bradycardia (a slow heart rate) is a classic sign of digoxin toxicity. Digoxin can slow the heart rate by affecting the electrical conduction system of the heart, and bradycardia is a key indicator of overdose or toxicity in infants and children taking this medication.