Question

when assessing a client prior to the administration of digoxin, which data is most important for the nurse to consider?
a irregular apical pulse with a rate of 87.
b nailbed capillary refill of 5 seconds.
c presence of a grade 2 murmur.
d bilateral lower extremity dependent rubor.

Explanation:

Digoxin is a cardiac glycoside used for heart conditions, and its administration requires careful assessment of cardiac function. An irregular apical pulse (even with a rate of 87) is critical because digoxin affects heart rhythm, and arrhythmias need to be monitored. Nailbed capillary refill (5 seconds) indicates poor perfusion but is not as directly related to digoxin's action. A grade 2 murmur is a structural heart sound and not the primary concern here. Dependent rubor relates to peripheral vascular issues, not core digoxin - related cardiac assessment. So the most important data is the irregular apical pulse.

Answer:

A. Irregular apical pulse with a rate of 87.