A nurse is assessing a preoperative client. The client has a history of atrial fibrillation and is taking warfarin daily. Which test order will the nurse request from the provider?
A serum sodium (Na)
A radiological examination of the chest
A blood urea nitrogen (BUN)
An international normalized ratio (INR)
The Correct Answer is D
A. Serum sodium levels are typically assessed to evaluate electrolyte balance and hydration status. While important for overall health assessment, it is not specifically related to monitoring the effects of warfarin therapy.
B. This could be ordered for various reasons such as assessing lung status or identifying any abnormalities in the chest. It is not directly related to monitoring warfarin therapy.
C. BUN levels are measured to assess kidney function and hydration status. While important for overall health assessment, it is not specifically related to monitoring the effects of warfarin therapy.
D. The INR is a standardized measurement of the blood's ability to clot. Warfarin works by inhibiting vitamin K-dependent clotting factors, thereby prolonging the time it takes for blood to clot. The INR is used to monitor and adjust warfarin dosage to maintain therapeutic anticoagulation levels, especially in patients with conditions like atrial fibrillation who are at risk of blood clots.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Heparin should be administered using IV tubing that is specifically labeled for heparin or that has been dedicated for anticoagulant use only. However, this is not the most important action.
B. Heparin is not typically administered as a bolus (large single dose) because of its rapid onset of action and potential for causing bleeding complications. Instead, heparin is usually administered as a continuous IV infusion to achieve and maintain therapeutic anticoagulation.
C. While vitamin K is an antidote for reversing the effects of warfarin (a different type of anticoagulant), it is not used for reversing the effects of heparin. The reversal agent for heparin is protamine sulfate. Therefore, having vitamin K available is not necessary for managing a client receiving heparin.
D. The aPTT is a laboratory test used to monitor the therapeutic effect of heparin therapy. It measures the clotting time of blood and helps ensure that the client's heparin infusion is within the desired therapeutic range. Checking aPTT regularly (usually every 4-6 hours initially, then adjusting based on results) is essential to maintain therapeutic anticoagulation and avoid complications like bleeding or clotting.
Correct Answer is {"dropdown-group-1":"A","dropdown-group-2":"E"}
Explanation
Correct choices are; Metabolic acidosis:
This can occur due to the client's diarrhea, leading to loss of bicarbonate (HCO3-) through the gastrointestinal tract. The ABG results show a pH slightly below normal (7.33) and a decreased bicarbonate level (19 mEq/L), indicative of metabolic acidosis.
Hypernatremia:
The client's sodium level is elevated at 149 mEq/L (normal range is 136-145 mEq/L). This indicates hypernatremia, which could be due to dehydration from diarrhea and possibly inadequate fluid intake.
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