The nurse is caring for an adult client who is taking digoxin. Which laboratory value should be reported to the healthcare provider immediately? Reference Range: Sodium [Adult 136 to 145 mEq/L (136 to 145 mmol/L)] Digoxin level [0.8 to 2.0 ng/mL (0.6 to 13 nmol/L)] Potassium (K+) [Adult: 3.5 to 5.0 mEq/L (3.5 to 5.0 mmol/L)] Creatinine [0.5 to 1.1 mg/dL (44 to 97 μmol/L)]
Explanation & Rationale
A) Sodium level of 135 mEq/L (135 mmol/L): This sodium level is slightly below the normal range but is not typically critical. It may require monitoring and evaluation, but it does not pose an immediate risk to the client taking digoxin. B) Potassium level of 3.2 mEq/L (3.2 mmol/L): This potassium level is significantly low and indicates hypokalemia. Low potassium levels can increase the risk of digoxin toxicity and may lead to serious cardiac arrhythmias. Therefore, this value should be reported to the healthcare provider immediately for further assessment and intervention. C) Creatinine level of 0.8 mg/dL (70.72 μmol/L): This creatinine level is within the normal range and indicates normal kidney function. While renal function is important for digoxin clearance, this value does not require urgent reporting. D) Digoxin level of 1.1 ng/mL (1.4 nmol/L): This digoxin level is within the therapeutic range (0.8 to 2.0 ng/mL) and does not indicate toxicity. While monitoring digoxin levels is important, this specific result does not warrant immediate concern or reporting.