For an older client prescribed digoxin, what is the expected outcome?

The expected outcome for an older client prescribed digoxin centers around its primary therapeutic effect, which is to increase the force of cardiac contraction and regulate heart rate, particularly in conditions such as heart failure and atrial fibrillation. Digoxin works by enhancing the contractility of the heart muscle, which can lead to an increased heart rate, especially if the client was experiencing a lower heart rate prior to treatment or arrhythmias.

In older adults, who may have a higher likelihood of experiencing heart rhythm issues, the use of digoxin should result in a more stable heart rhythm and potentially improved cardiac output. Therefore, while the goal is typically to restore the heart to a normal rate and rhythm, the immediate expected outcome includes an increase in heart rate to a more appropriate level if it was previously low or irregular.

While there may be secondary benefits related to blood pressure, renal function, or cognitive function over the long term with optimal management and treatment of heart conditions, these are not the immediate primary outcomes associated with the administration of digoxin, particularly in older clients. Thus, the focus on increased heart rate as an expected outcome aligns directly with the pharmacological effects of digoxin.