A nurse is caring for a client who has a pulmonary embolism. The client is receiving heparin via continuous IV infusion at 1,200 units/hr and warfarin 5 mg PO daily. The morning laboratory values for the client are aPTT 98 seconds (30 to 40 seconds) and INR 1.8 (0.8 to 1.1). Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Withhold the next dose of warfarin
Withhold the heparin infusion
Prepare to administer vitamin K
Prepare to administer alteplase
The Correct Answer is B
A. Withholding the next dose of warfarin is incorrect. Warfarin takes several days to reach therapeutic levels, and the INR of 1.8 is below the target range (typically 2.0–3.0 for PE treatment). Stopping warfarin is unnecessary.
B. Withholding the heparin infusion is correct. The aPTT is significantly elevated at 98 seconds (therapeutic range: 60–80 seconds for PE treatment), increasing the risk of bleeding. The nurse should pause the heparin infusion and notify the provider for dose adjustment.
C. Preparing to administer vitamin K is incorrect. Vitamin K reverses warfarin effects, but the INR of 1.8 is not dangerously high and does not require reversal.
D. Preparing to administer alteplase is incorrect. Alteplase (a thrombolytic) is used for massive PE with hemodynamic instability, not for a patient already receiving anticoagulation therapy.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","C","D","E"]
Explanation
A. Administering methylergonovine maleate is indicated if the uterus is boggy (atonic), as it helps to contract the uterus and reduce the risk of postpartum hemorrhage.
B. Massaging a firm fundus is not appropriate; instead, the nurse should massage a boggy (soft) fundus to promote uterine contraction.
C. Documenting fundal height is a necessary action to assess uterine involution and ensure it is progressing as expected after delivery.
D. Observing the lochia during palpation of the fundus is important to assess for any abnormal findings, such as heavy bleeding, which could indicate complications.
E. Determining whether the fundus is midline is crucial; a displaced fundus may indicate bladder distention, which can affect uterine contraction.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Assisting with deep breathing and coughing is the priority action. This is crucial in preventing respiratory complications, such as atelectasis or pneumonia, especially following abdominal surgery. Deep breathing exercises can help expand the lungs and promote ventilation.
B. Monitoring the incision site for signs of infection is important, but it is not the immediate priority. The client’s respiratory function takes precedence in the early postoperative period.
C. Assessing fluid intake is important for overall recovery, but it is not as critical as ensuring the client can breathe effectively and prevent complications.
D. While ambulation is beneficial for recovery and preventing complications such as deep vein thrombosis, the nurse must first ensure the client can manage their airway and breathing.
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