The nurse is providing discharge teaching for a client who developed a pulmonary embolism after total knee surgery. The client has been converted from heparin to sodium warfarin (Coumadin) anticoagulant therapy. What should the nurse teach the client?
Anticoagulant therapy usually needs to be continued between 3 and 6 months and up to 12 months.
The client should take a vitamin supplement containing vitamin K.
Warfarin will continue to break up the clot over the weeks.
Warfarin should be taken with aspirin
The Correct Answer is A
Rationale:
A. Anticoagulant therapy for a pulmonary embolism is typically continued for 3–6 months, and sometimes up to 12 months or longer, depending on risk factors and medical history. This is correct and should be part of discharge teaching.
B. Vitamin K can interfere with warfarin’s effectiveness; clients should avoid supplements with high vitamin K unless advised otherwise by their provider.
C. Warfarin does not dissolve existing clots; it prevents new clots from forming and existing ones from growing. The body gradually breaks down the clot on its own.
D. Taking warfarin with aspirin increases bleeding risk unless specifically prescribed; clients should be cautioned against using other blood-thinning medications without provider approval.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Applying heat in the first 24–48 hours after a sprain can increase swelling and is not recommended. Cold therapy (ice) is preferred initially to reduce inflammation.
B. Wrapping should start from the toes and move upward toward the knee to promote venous return and proper compression, not from the knee down.
C. Bearing weight too soon can worsen the injury; rest and limited movement are advised initially.
D. Applying ice during the first 24–48 hours helps reduce swelling and pain, and is an appropriate self-care measure for a recent ankle sprain, indicating proper understanding of discharge instructions.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Infertility is a possible side effect of pelvic radiation, not neck radiation.
B. Dyspnea may occur if the airway is directly affected by the tumor or swelling, but it is not the most common side effect of external neck radiation.
C. Dysphagia (difficulty swallowing) is a common and expected side effect of external radiation to the neck due to inflammation and irritation of the mucosa and esophagus.
D. Diarrhea is associated with abdominal or pelvic radiation, not head or neck treatment.
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