What should a nurse teach parents about digoxin administration for a toddler with heart failure?

Instructing parents about the administration of digoxin to a toddler with heart failure is crucial for ensuring compliance and effective treatment. The correct choice emphasizes the importance of making the medication more palatable for young children, who may refuse a medication that tastes bitter or unpleasant. By suggesting that the medication can be added to a small amount of the child’s favorite juice, it increases the likelihood that the child will take it willingly, thus ensuring the prescribed dose is administered.

This approach also supports the child's comfort and cooperation during the medication regimen. However, parents should be cautioned to limit the volume of juice used, so it does not alter the effectiveness of the medication or lead to dilution beyond recommended safety levels.

Other options may lead to complications or ineffective treatment. For instance, administering the medication with water only might not be as effective in encouraging adherence. Doubling a dose if one is missed poses a risk for toxicity, given digoxin's narrow therapeutic window. Finally, stopping the medication during episodes of diarrhea could lead to worsening heart failure symptoms, as digoxin plays an essential role in managing the condition. Thus, it is vital for parents to have clear guidance on the appropriate administration of digoxin.