A patient on digoxin and furosemide presents with a potassium level of 3.2 mEq/L. What does this indicate?

Study for the Kaplan Pharmacology Integrated Test. Use flashcards and multiple choice questions with detailed explanations. Get exam-ready!

A potassium level of 3.2 mEq/L indicates hypokalemia, which is a lower-than-normal level of potassium in the blood. This condition can significantly increase the risk of digoxin toxicity. Digoxin's therapeutic range is narrow, and potassium plays a crucial role in cardiac function and the effectiveness of digoxin. When potassium levels drop, it can lead to increased sensitivity of the cardiac tissues to digoxin, thereby elevating the likelihood of toxic effects, such as arrhythmias.

In patients receiving digoxin, monitoring potassium levels is essential because low levels can exacerbate the drug's effects, leading to potential toxicity, even if digoxin levels are within therapeutic range. Therefore, the presence of hypokalemia in this patient indicates a need for close observation and possible intervention to prevent complications associated with digoxin therapy.

The other options pertain to different aspects of potassium levels and digoxin use but do not relate directly to the clinical implications of the identified hypokalemia in this specific patient presentation.

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