A nurse is caring for a client who has deep vein thrombosis and has been on heparin continuous infusion for 5 days. The provider prescribes warfarin PO without discontinuing the heparin. The client asks the nurse why both anticoagulants are necessary. Which of the following statements should the nurse make?
"I will call the provider to get a prescription for discontinuing the IV heparin today."
"Both heparin and warfarin work together to dissolve the clots."
"The IV heparin increases the effects of the warfarin and decreases the length of your hospital stay."
"Warfarin takes several days to work, so the IV heparin will be used until the warfarin reaches a therapeutic level."
The Correct Answer is D
Rationale:
A. Discontinuing heparin abruptly without achieving therapeutic levels of warfarin increases the risk of thrombus formation.
B. Heparin and warfarin have different mechanisms of action, but they both serve to prevent clot formation.
C. Heparin and warfarin do not directly affect each other's therapeutic effects.
D. Warfarin takes time to reach therapeutic levels and become effective, so heparin is continued until warfarin is fully active.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Tenormin (Atenolol) is a beta-blocker that reduces the heart rate and may affect the results of the stress test. Therefore, it should be held the morning of the test.
B. Heparin is an anticoagulant and is not typically held before a stress test.
C. Keflex (Cephalexin) is an antibiotic and is not typically held before a stress test.
D. Holding all medications is not necessary for a stress test, but specific medications that may interfere with the test, such as beta-blockers, should be held.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Rationale:
A. This is important because AFib can lead to blood clots, which may cause bruising or other skin changes.
B. Missing doses of medication can increase the risk of complications in atrial fibrillation.
C. Hypothyroidism is not directly related to AFib. Therefore, this information is not relevant for AFib education.
D. Hypertension is a risk factor for atrial fibrillation.
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