A nurse is reinforcing teaching with a client who asks which diagnostic test is the preferred method for detecting cervical cancer. Which is an appropriate response by the nurse?

a. Prothrombin time (PT): Warfarin affects the extrinsic pathway of the coagulation cascade, and PT is the primary diagnostic test used to monitor the therapeutic effect of warfarin. It measures

the time it takes for blood to clot.

b. Platelet count: Platelet count assesses the number of platelets in the blood and is not specifically used to monitor the effect of warfarin.

c. White blood cell count (WBC): WBC count assesses the number of white blood cells and is not specifically used to monitor the effect of warfarin.

d. Activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT): While aPTT is a valuable test for monitoring the therapeutic effect of heparin, it is not the primary test for warfarin. Warfarin primarily affects the extrinsic pathway, and PT is more appropriate for monitoring its effects.

A. Request an order for an antiemetic - Checking vital signs is the priority before administering any medication. Antiemetics may be considered later, but the nurse needs to assess the client's overall condition first.

B. Request a dietary consult - Assessing vital signs comes before consulting for dietary issues.

The priority is to determine the client's immediate physiological status.

C. Check the client’s vital signs - This is the correct first action as it helps to evaluate the client's cardiovascular status, especially considering the potential toxicity of digoxin in the setting of

nausea and refusal of breakfast.

D. Suggest that the client rests before eating the meal - While rest may be beneficial, assessing vital signs takes precedence to rule out any acute cardiovascular compromise.