Cardiac glycosides

Cardiac glycosides

Medications derived from the foxglove plant used to treat atrial arrhythmias and congestive heart failure.

Digoxin

The most commonly used cardiac glycoside that can be administered orally, intravenously, or intramuscularly.

Sodium-potassium ATPase

An enzyme that pumps sodium out of and potassium into cells; inhibited by digoxin.

Calcium buildup in cardiomyocytes

Increased calcium within heart cells due to digoxin, enhancing the force of cardiac contractions.

Narrow therapeutic window

Situation where small changes in medication levels can lead to toxicity; relevant for digoxin.

Signs of digoxin toxicity

Include gastrointestinal disturbances like anorexia, nausea, vomiting, and visual disturbances.

Vagus nerve stimulation

Effect of digoxin that reduces heart rate by increasing parasympathetic activity.

Electrolyte abnormalities

Conditions like hypokalemia and hypercalcemia that predispose to digoxin toxicity.

Potassium-rich foods

Foods recommended for clients on potassium-wasting diuretics to help maintain potassium levels.

Therapeutic range for digoxin

Desired blood concentration level of digoxin, which is 0.5 to 2 nanograms/mL.

Ventricular arrhythmia

Conditions requiring more effective alternatives to digoxin due to its contraindications.

Apical pulse assessment

Important nursing action before administering intravenous digoxin.

Signs of hypokalemia

Symptoms like muscle twitches, weakness, or fatigue indicating low potassium levels.

Digoxin immune Fab

Antidote for treating digoxin toxicity.

ECG monitoring

Continuous monitoring of heart rhythm required when administering intravenous digoxin.

Quality of life improvement

Expected therapeutic response from effective digoxin therapy.