Nursing Acceleration Challenge Exam (NACE) PN-RN Practice Test

Which of the following can indicate signs of digitoxicity?

1. Color vision changes.

2. Diarrhea.

3. Normal heart rate.

4. Severe headache.

The correct answer is: Color vision changes.

The correct response centers on color vision changes as a potential indicator of digitoxicity. Digitalis medications, which are often used to treat heart conditions, can lead to various adverse effects when toxicity occurs. One notable side effect is changes in visual perception, particularly color vision. Patients may experience alterations in their ability to distinguish colors, notably between greens and yellows, due to the drug's effect on the optic nerve. While diarrhea can also be a symptom of digitoxicity, it is not as uniquely indicative as color vision changes. A normal heart rate is typically not a sign of toxicity, as digitoxicity often leads to irregular heart rhythms. Severe headache, while potentially related to various issues, does not have a direct correlation with digitoxicity in the same way that visual disturbances do. Thus, color vision changes stand out as a specific and recognized symptom associated with digitoxicity.