If a client on digoxin has a potassium level of 3.1 mEq/L, what should the nurse do?

When a client is on digoxin and has a potassium level of 3.1 mEq/L, it is critical to withhold the medication and notify the provider. This is because digoxin has a narrow therapeutic index and its effects can be significantly influenced by serum potassium levels. Hypokalemia, or low potassium levels, can increase the risk of digoxin toxicity, as potassium and digoxin compete at the same binding sites in the heart.

Therefore, when the potassium is low, digoxin can have an enhanced effect, leading to potential adverse reactions such as arrhythmias. Withholding the medication allows for the opportunity to address the low potassium levels first, which is essential for the safety of the patient. Notifying the provider ensures that the client receives appropriate intervention for the hypokalemia, which may include potassium supplementation or dietary adjustments.

Taking these steps is critical in managing the patient's safety and minimizing the risk of complications associated with low potassium levels in the context of digoxin therapy.