A patient with a history of atrial fibrillation has contacted the clinic saying that she has accidentally overdosed on her prescribed warfarin (Coumadin). The nurse should recognize the possible need for what antidote?

A. Monitor daily weights and urine output.

Monitoring daily weights and urine output is an important aspect of managing heart failure or other cardiac conditions. However, in the context of a client with chest pain, ST elevation, and elevated cardiac enzymes (indicating a myocardial infarction), the immediate focus is on addressing the acute event and reducing myocardial oxygen demand.

B. Administer TPA to prevent further damage as a result of a clot.

Tissue plasminogen activator (TPA) is a thrombolytic medication that can be administered to dissolve blood clots in the coronary arteries during a myocardial infarction. However, the administration of TPA has a specific timeframe within which it is most effective. It is crucial to know the elapsed time since the onset of symptoms, and there are specific criteria and contraindications for its use.

C. Provide client education on medications and diet to prevent recurrence.

Client education on medications, lifestyle modifications, and dietary changes is an essential component of long-term management for preventing recurrence of cardiovascular events. However, during the acute phase of a myocardial infarction, the immediate priority is to stabilize the client and address the acute event, with education being a secondary consideration.

D. Reduce pain and myocardial oxygen demand.

During the acute phase of a myocardial infarction, reducing pain and myocardial oxygen demand is the highest priority. This is typically achieved through the administration of medications such as nitroglycerin for vasodilation and opioids for pain relief. Other interventions to optimize oxygen supply and demand, such as supplemental oxygen and reperfusion strategies, may also be considered.

A. Frequent change of position:

Frequent changes in position help prevent pooling of secretions and promote lung expansion. This simple and cost-effective measure is important in preventing complications related to immobility, such as pneumonia and atelectasis. It aids in maintaining optimal respiratory function.

B. Antibiotics: Antibiotics are used to treat bacterial infections and would not directly address the risks associated with decreased mobility.

C. Oxygen humidification: While oxygen therapy may be necessary in some cases, humidification is typically used to prevent drying of mucous membranes and is not a primary intervention for preventing complications of decreased mobility.

D. Chest physiotherapy: Chest physiotherapy involves techniques to mobilize respiratory secretions and may be indicated in specific situations. However, it is not as simple and cost-effective as frequent changes in position.