Pharmacology Hesi 2023 | 52 Questions and Answers Graded A+

Digoxin (Lanoxin) - positive inotrope (increases force of contraction); negative chronotrope (decreases heart rate). How do you assess for this? - Always take apical pulse for one full minute Client with a long hx of daily digoxin and fourosemide (Lasix) use; creates a high risk for dig toxicity because - Lasix can cause hypokalemia, which can lead to dig toxicity What can happen when Digoxin is taken with Dronedarone (Multaq), which is another anti-dysrhythmic drug)? - Digoxin can increase in the blood level and further increase the effects What is the normal digoxin level? - 0.5-2 ng/mL Normal serum potassium level is - 3.5-5.0 mEq/L Low potassium or magnesium levels may increase risk for - Digoxin toxicity What are the signs and symptoms for digoxin toxcitiy? - anorexia, bradycardia, headache, dizziness, confusion, nausea, and visual disturbances such as blurred, yellow, or halo vision. When should you hold off on giving digoxin drug therapy? - if apical pulse is less than 60 What effects do Calcium channel blockers (-dipine; amlodipine (Norvasc), nifedipine (Procardia) cause - produce vasodialation and reflex tachycardia (lowers BP but increases HR) Verapamil and diltiazam produce - vasodialation and cardiosuppresssion (lowers BP and Lowers heart rate) Beta blockers have the drug ending - -OLOL such as atenolol, propanolol, esmolol, ect.)