Author: E. Lizabeth

Oriented Times One and Objectivity

Before diving into this great big sea of nursing, knowing how to handle your emotions is key. You’re of little use if you are too emotional and are unable to focus and provide care but then you don’t want to cut yourself off completely like many of us see in caregiver burnout. Where’s the happy … Continue reading Oriented Times One and Objectivity

Before diving into this great big sea of nursing, knowing how to handle your emotions is key. You’re of little use if you are too emotional and are unable to focus and provide care but then you don’t want to cut yourself off completely like many of us see in caregiver burnout. Where’s the happy medium? Notice I said happy. 

 

 

Digoxin and the kidneys

Digoxin Therapeutic Class: antiarrhythmic, inotropic Pharmacologic Class: digitalis glycosides Metabolism/Excretion: Excreted almost entirely unchanged by the kidneys. Use cautiously in patients with renal impairment (decreased dose required). Geri: very sensitive to toxic effect; dose adjustments required for age related decrease in renal function and body weight. Check serum digoxin levels. Therapeutic serum digoxin levels 0.5-2 ng/ml.  Elder patients … Continue reading “Digoxin and the kidneys”

Digoxin

Therapeutic Class: antiarrhythmic, inotropic

Pharmacologic Class: digitalis glycosides

Metabolism/Excretion: Excreted almost entirely unchanged by the kidneys.

Use cautiously in patients with renal impairment (decreased dose required). Geri: very sensitive to toxic effect; dose adjustments required for age related decrease in renal function and body weight.

Check serum digoxin levels. Therapeutic serum digoxin levels 0.5-2 ng/ml.  Elder patients are at an increased risk for toxic effects of digoxin (Appears on Beers list) due to age-related decreased renal clearance, which can exist even when serum creatinine levels are normal. Digoxin requirements may change and a formerly therapeutic dose can become toxic.

S/S of toxicity: abdominal pain, anorexia, nausea, vomiting, visual disturbances, bradycardia, and other arrhythmias. If these appear, withhold drug.

 

Reference:

Skyscape. (2016). Skyscape Medical Library (Version 2.4.9) [Mobil application software]. Retrieved from http://itunes.apple.com.

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