NursingPlex
    Sign In
    Ati Nurs 223 W26 Med Surg Proctored Exam 2

    An older adult client presents to the emergency department with diarrhea, weakness, headache, and "yellowish" vision. Exhibits The nurse should suspect which condition?

    Explanation & Rationale

    Rationale: A. While an overdose could cause hypotension, dizziness, or weakness, it does not typically cause visual changes such as yellow-tinted vision. Therefore, this is unlikely given the patient’s presentation. B. A viral infection might cause diarrhea, weakness, and headache, but visual disturbances are not characteristic. Additionally, viral syndromes usually present with fever, malaise, or respiratory symptoms, which are not reported here. C. Gastroenteritis could explain diarrhea and weakness due to fluid loss and electrolyte imbalance. However, yellow vision (xanthopsia) is not a symptom of gastroenteritis, making this less likely. D. This client has atrial fibrillation and heart failure, both common indications for digoxin therapy. Classic signs of digoxin toxicity include gastrointestinal symptoms (diarrhea, nausea, vomiting), neurologic symptoms (weakness, headache, confusion), and visual changes (blurred or yellow vision, halos around lights). Chronic kidney disease increases the risk of digoxin accumulation, as digoxin is renally cleared. This constellation of symptoms strongly supports digoxin toxicity.

    🔒 Submit your answer to reveal