A nurse is providing teaching about digoxin administration to the parents of a toddler who has heart failure. Which of the following statements should the nurse include in the teaching?
Explanation & Rationale
A. "Repeat the dose if your child vomits within 1 hour after taking the medication.": Repeating a dose after vomiting can increase the risk of digoxin toxicity. It is important to notify the healthcare provider rather than automatically administering another dose. B. "Limit your child's potassium intake while she is taking this medication.": Limiting potassium is unsafe, as low potassium levels increase the risk of digoxin toxicity. Adequate potassium intake should be maintained, and potassium levels monitored, especially if the child is on diuretics. C. "Have your child drink a small glass of water after swallowing the medication.": Encouraging the child to drink water helps ensure the full dose is swallowed and reduces irritation to the esophagus, promoting safe and effective administration. D. "You can add the medication to a half-cup of your child's favorite juice.": Digoxin should not be mixed with large volumes of liquid because toddlers may not consume the entire dose, leading to underdosing. Small amounts of liquid can be used to aid administration but must be measured carefully.