Question

A nurse gives a client 0.25 mg of digoxin instead of the prescribed dose of 0.125 mg. What should the nurse do next?

Nothing; the dose will not make a significant difference. Assess the client and notify the client’s health care provider. Give another 0.125 mg as soon as possible. Hold the next dose to make sure the total amount balances.

Answer 1

If a nurse administers 0.25 mg of digoxin instead of the prescribed 0.125 mg, the first priority is to assess the client for any signs of digoxin toxicity, as the administered dose is higher than what was prescribed.

Here’s the appropriate course of action:

1. **Assess the client**: Monitor for any signs or symptoms of digoxin toxicity, which can include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, visual changes (like seeing yellow or green haloes), confusion, and irregular heart rhythms.

2. **Notify the health care provider**: It is critical to inform the healthcare provider of the medication error and the client's status.

3. **Do not give another dose**: Do not administer another 0.125 mg or hold the next dose without consulting the healthcare provider, as this could complicate the situation further.

In summary, the correct action is to assess the client and notify the healthcare provider.