Pharmacology Proctored ATI Practice Exam

Before administering digoxin to a client with atrial fibrillation, what should the nurse do?

1. Check the client's blood pressure

2. Review the client's potassium level

3. Measure the client's apical pulse

4. Evaluate the client's respiratory rate

The correct answer is: Measure the client's apical pulse

Before administering digoxin to a client with atrial fibrillation, the nurse should measure the client's apical pulse. This is because digoxin is a medication commonly used for atrial fibrillation that works by slowing down the heart rate. Therefore, it is important to assess the client's apical pulse prior to administration to ensure that the heart rate is within the recommended range. Monitoring the apical pulse helps the nurse determine if the client's heart rate is appropriate for administering digoxin. Checking the client's blood pressure, reviewing the client's potassium level, and evaluating the client's respiratory rate are also important assessments but not specifically related to digoxin administration for atrial fibrillation.