What instruction should a nurse give to the parents of a child receiving digoxin twice daily?

The correct instruction for the parents of a child receiving digoxin twice daily is to brush the child's teeth after administering the medication. This is important because digoxin can cause gastrointestinal side effects, and the medication's residue can remain in the mouth, potentially leading to dental issues such as decay if not properly cleaned. By brushing teeth following the administration of digoxin, the parents can help prevent any adverse oral health effects that might arise from the medication.

Additionally, brushing teeth regularly is a part of good overall hygiene, especially when a child is on medications that affect the mouth or digestive system. It contributes to maintaining the child’s dental health and can also help the parents monitor for any side effects associated with oral medications.

In contrast, measuring medication with a kitchen teaspoon is not recommended because it may lead to inaccuracies in dosing; proper measurement tools should be used to ensure the correct dose is administered. Doubling a missed dose can lead to toxicity, as digoxin has a narrow therapeutic index; any missed doses should be handled according to specific guidelines provided by a healthcare professional. If a child vomits after taking digoxin, parents typically should not repeat the dose without consulting a healthcare provider, as this can lead to an overdose.