For which potassium level should digoxin be withheld and the provider notified?

Digoxin is a medication used primarily to treat heart conditions such as atrial fibrillation and heart failure. One critical aspect of its use is monitoring potassium levels because low potassium (hypokalemia) can increase the risk of digoxin toxicity. When potassium levels fall significantly, such as a level of 3.1, the heart is more susceptible to the effects of digoxin, which can lead to serious cardiac complications.

Specifically, at a potassium level of 3.1, the risk of arrhythmias and digoxin toxicity is heightened, necessitating immediate action. It is standard protocol to withhold digoxin and notify the healthcare provider for such a low potassium level. The provider may decide to investigate the cause of the low potassium and initiate appropriate interventions, which may include potassium supplementation or examining other potential factors affecting potassium levels.

In contrast, potassium levels that are within the normal range, such as 4.0 and 3.5, or even slightly elevated at 5.2, would not usually warrant withholding digoxin, as these levels do not pose an immediate risk for toxicity. Thus, the decision to withhold digoxin is fundamentally based on ensuring patient safety and preventing adverse effects related to potassium imbalances.