Search PubMedSearch

PubMed · 1442543

Interpreting digoxin concentrations.

Abstract

In all cases, clinical assessment of the patient is the most critical factor in determining dose and interpreting concentrations. When done accurately, laboratory assessment of drug concentrations represents only one source of information. Serum concentrations must be taken into account along with all other relevant clinical data before one can arrive at appropriate management decisions. They must not be considered in isolation and out of context. If the laboratory report is at variance with your clinical judgment, "it will often be the better part of wisdom to question (or reject) the report."

Explore related subjects

Keep this discovery

Explore connections, maps & timelines

BibTeXRIS

B R Canaday. 1992. Interpreting digoxin concentrations.. https://doi.org/10.1016/s0160-3450(15)30945-4

Cite the original work for its findings. Save a collection to share your selection of sources.

KEEP EXPLORING

Related citations

Diagnosing syncope.

Explore the source record for details and available documents.

Arrhythmias, Cardiac

Advances in the treatment of arrhythmias: implantable cardioverter-defibrillators.

Implantable cardioverter-defibrillators are commonly used in patients who have life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias. With these implanted electronic devices, bradyarrhythmias and tachyarrhythmias can be recognized promptly and treated with electrical pacing, cardioversion or defibrillation. Implantable cardioverter-defibrillators have been shown to substantially reduce the incidence of sudden cardiac death in patients with known life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias. Their role in the primary prevention of sudden cardiac death in patients at high risk for ventricular arrhythmias is being evaluated. Technologic advances have allowed transvenous implantation of cardiac leads, obviating the need for open heart surgery and thereby lowering the risk of perioperative morbidity and mortality. Most electrical therapies are triggered appropriately to treat ventricular tachycardia/fibrillation. Inappropriate discharges may occur secondary to supraventricular causes of tachycardia, environmental interference from electromagnetic devices or malfunction of the cardioverter-defibrillator. All episodes of discharge merit investigation. With recurrent or frequent discharges, prompt evaluation and hospitalization are often necessary.

Arrhythmias, Cardiac