The 96-year-old client is receiving digoxin and furosemide. In the morning, the client reports having a headache and feeling nauseated. What should the nurse do first?
Explanation & Rationale
A. Contact the client's primary health care provider immediately: Contacting the provider may be necessary later, but first, the nurse should assess the client’s condition by checking vital signs and lab values to guide further actions. B. Check the client's laboratory values and vital signs: Headache and nausea may indicate digoxin toxicity or electrolyte imbalance from furosemide. Checking vital signs and lab values (e.g., potassium, digoxin levels) will help determine the cause and guide the next steps. C. Administer acetaminophen and aluminum hydroxide/magnesium hydroxide: While acetaminophen may relieve the headache, this doesn’t address possible digoxin toxicity or electrolyte imbalance. Administering medication without assessment could mask symptoms. D. Give the client clear liquids and have the client lie down: Hydration and rest may offer comfort but don't address the potential underlying causes like toxicity or imbalance. A thorough assessment should be done first.