A nurse is caring for a client who is diagnosed with a deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and is receiving heparin. The client asks the nurse how long it will take for the heparin to dissolve the clot, which of the following responses should the nurse give?
"Depending on the level of your PT/INR, the clot will begin to dissolve."
"Heparin goes not dissolve clots. It stops new clots from forming"
"It usually takes heparin at least 2 to 3 days to reach a therapeutic blood level."
"After the first dose, the clot will begin to dissolve."
The Correct Answer is B
A. PT/INR is more relevant for monitoring anticoagulant therapy like warfarin, not heparin.
B. This response is accurate; heparin prevents further clot formation but does not dissolve existing clots, which can take time for the body to reabsorb.
C. Heparin begins to exert its effects quickly, and therapeutic levels are not measured by PT/INR but by aPTT or anti-factor Xa levels.
D. Clots do not dissolve immediately after the first dose of heparin; the medication's role is to prevent clot extension.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Doxazosin is an alpha-1 blocker that can be used for hypertension but is not a first-line option.
B. Carvedilol is a beta-blocker used in heart failure and post-MI but is not the first choice for initial hypertension treatment.
C. Lisinopril, an ACE inhibitor, is widely recognized as a first-line treatment for hypertension due to its effectiveness and favorable side effect profile.
D. Clonidine is generally not considered a first-line treatment for hypertension due to potential side effects and the availability of more effective alternatives.
Correct Answer is ["A","B","E","F"]
Explanation
A. Rebound hypotension can occur with the abrupt withdrawal of beta-blockers like esmolol, so clients should be advised against suddenly stopping the medication.
B. Vomiting is not a typical or common side effect of esmolol.
C. Bradycardia is a known effect of beta-blockers, including esmolol, and should be monitored.
D. Esmolol can mask the symptoms of hypoglycemia in diabetic patients, which is an important consideration for patient education.
E. Tremors are not commonly associated with esmolol; rather, they might be seen in other conditions or medications.
F. Bronchoconstriction can occur with non-selective beta-blockers; however, esmolol is cardioselective, so the risk is lower but still possible, especially in patients with underlying respiratory conditions.
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