A nurse is taking care of a client with diagnosis of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) receiving anticoagulant therapy.
Complete the following sentence by using the following options.
Based on the patient's current medications, the nurse knows to monitor
The Correct Answer is {"dropdown-group-1":"A","dropdown-group-2":"D"}
aPTT (Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time) is the primary lab test used to monitor the effectiveness of unfractionated heparin therapy. Heparin works by activating antithrombin III, which inhibits thrombin and factor Xa, thus prolonging the aPTT. Monitoring aPTT helps ensure that the heparin dose is therapeutic and reduces the risk of bleeding.
PT-INR (Prothrombin Time - International Normalized Ratio) is used to monitor patients on warfarin therapy. Warfarin inhibits vitamin K-dependent clotting factors, which affects the prothrombin time (PT). The INR standardizes PT results, allowing for consistent monitoring of anticoagulation status. It is critical to maintain the INR within the therapeutic range to balance the risk of thrombosis against the risk of bleeding.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Hypokalemia can occur with some antihypertensives, but it is more associated with diuretics rather than ACE inhibitors. Vomiting is not a common side effect.
B. A dry, non-productive cough is a well-known side effect of ACE inhibitors, which the nurse should specifically assess for during follow-up.
C. Epistaxis (nosebleed) and headache are not common or specific side effects associated with ACE inhibitors.
D. Nausea and vomiting can occur with various medications, but they are not specifically indicative of ACE inhibitor use.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
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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