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 D
Explanation
A. Increased creatinine clearance is not a common effect of gemfibrozil; rather, it may lead to liver function changes or muscle-related side effects.
B. Gemfibrozil does not typically decrease prothrombin time (PT); this option does not relate to its mechanism of action.
C. Hyperkalemia is not a typical side effect of gemfibrozil; it may be more relevant to other medications, particularly those affecting the kidneys.
D. Gallstones are a known side effect of gemfibrozil, as the drug can increase biliary cholesterol saturation, leading to the formation of stones.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Argatroban is specifically indicated for patients with heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT), as it is a direct thrombin inhibitor that does not cause further platelet depletion.
B. Myocardial infarction is treated with different classes of anticoagulants or antiplatelet medications, not specifically argatroban.
C. Gastrointestinal bleeding would generally be a contraindication to anticoagulation therapy rather than an indication for argatroban use.
D. Hepatotoxicity could be a concern when using argatroban, especially as it is metabolized in the liver, but it does not indicate a need for this medication.
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