The nurse takes a patient's vital signs prior to giving metoprolol tartrate and obtains the following results: T 98 degrees F, P 48, R 16 bpm, BP 100/50 and a pulse oximeter of 98%. What action will the nurse take?

A. "Warfarin takes several days to work, so the heparin will be used until the warfarin reaches a therapeutic level":
This response is correct because warfarin, an oral anticoagulant, takes several days to reach its full therapeutic effect due to its mechanism of action on vitamin K-dependent clotting factors. Therefore, heparin, which has an immediate onset of action, is used concurrently to prevent new clot formation until warfarin reaches therapeutic levels. Once warfarin reaches its therapeutic range, heparin is typically discontinued.

B. "The heparin increases the effects of the warfarin and decreases the length of your hospital stay":
This statement is incorrect. While heparin and warfarin both act as anticoagulants, they have different mechanisms of action. Heparin works rapidly by inhibiting thrombin, while warfarin acts more slowly by inhibiting vitamin K-dependent clotting factors. The concurrent use of heparin and warfarin is not to increase the effects of warfarin but rather to bridge the gap until warfarin reaches therapeutic levels.

C. "I will call the provider to discontinue the heparin":
Discontinuing heparin without a clear order from the provider could be inappropriate and potentially dangerous. Abrupt discontinuation of heparin before warfarin reaches therapeutic levels could increase the risk of thrombus formation or embolization. The decision to discontinue heparin should be made by the provider based on the patient's individual clinical status and response to therapy.

D. "Both medications work together to dissolve the clots":
While both heparin and warfarin are anticoagulants used to prevent further clot formation and propagation, they do not directly dissolve existing clots. Instead, they prevent the formation of new clots and allow the body's natural fibrinolytic system to gradually break down existing clots. Therefore, this statement is not entirely accurate in describing the mechanism of action of these medications.

A. Reluctance to monitor blood pressure at home: One barrier to blood pressure management in patients newly diagnosed with hypertension is reluctance or resistance to monitor blood pressure at home. Home blood pressure monitoring is an essential component of hypertension management as it allows patients and healthcare providers to track blood pressure trends, assess the effectiveness of treatment, and make adjustments as needed. However, some patients may feel apprehensive about self-monitoring or may lack understanding of its importance, leading to reluctance to engage in this aspect of their care. Addressing this barrier requires patient education, encouragement, and support to promote the benefits of home blood pressure monitoring and empower patients to take an active role in managing their hypertension.

B. Reduction in work hours: While work-related stress and long working hours can contribute to hypertension, a reduction in work hours would not typically be considered a barrier to blood pressure management, especially if it allows for better stress management, lifestyle modifications, and adherence to treatment regimens.

C. Initiation of an exercise plan: Starting an exercise plan is generally considered a positive step in blood pressure management rather than a barrier. Regular physical activity helps lower blood pressure, improve cardiovascular health, and promote overall well-being. However, barriers related to exercise adherence, such as lack of time, motivation, or access to suitable facilities, could hinder effective blood pressure management.

D. Preference for a low sodium diet: Opting for a low sodium diet is beneficial for individuals with hypertension as it helps reduce blood pressure levels and lowers the risk of cardiovascular events. Therefore, a preference for a low sodium diet would not be considered a barrier to blood pressure management. However, barriers related to dietary adherence, such as taste preferences, cultural influences, or difficulty in meal planning, may need to be addressed to support long-term dietary changes and improve blood pressure control.