What vital information must you know before administering digoxin?

Before administering digoxin, it is crucial to know the patient's heart rate, as this medication directly affects cardiac function. Digoxin is a cardiac glycoside that increases the force of myocardial contractions and also modulates heart rate through its effects on the atrioventricular node.

A heart rate below a certain threshold—typically 60 beats per minute for adults—might indicate that the medication should not be given due to the increased risk of bradycardia and potential adverse effects. Therefore, monitoring the heart rate ensures that the medication is administered safely and only when it is appropriate to do so.

While knowledge of blood pressure, electrolyte levels, and patient weight may also be important in the overall management of a patient on digoxin, it is the heart rate that is specifically critical as it directly informs the decision to administer the drug. Understanding the interactions and the clinical implications of digoxin therapy hinges on this vital sign.