Which assessment findings are consistent with cirrhosis? Select all that apply.

Choice A reason: This statement is incorrect because the combination of heparin and warfarin does not dissolve the blood clot faster. Instead, these medications have different mechanisms of action. Heparin works quickly to prevent further clot formation, while warfarin takes several days to reach therapeutic levels and maintain anticoagulation over the long term.
Choice B reason: While the risk of a blood clot in the lungs (pulmonary embolism) is a concern, the necessity of using both heparin and warfarin is not because of the need for multiple blood thinners but rather due to their complementary pharmacokinetics. Heparin provides immediate anticoagulation, whereas warfarin requires time to become effective.
Choice C reason: This statement is also incorrect. Heparin does not dissolve clots but works to prevent the extension of existing clots and the formation of new ones. Warfarin, likewise, does not dissolve clots but prevents further clot formation by inhibiting vitamin K-dependent clotting factors.
Choice D reason: This is the accurate response. Heparin works immediately, providing rapid anticoagulation, which is essential for acute management of venous thromboembolism. On the other hand, warfarin takes several days to achieve its anticoagulant effect because it works by inhibiting the synthesis of vitamin K-dependent clotting factors. Therefore, the patient is initially placed on heparin to provide immediate protection against clotting while warfarin is started simultaneously. Once warfarin reaches a therapeutic level, heparin can be discontinued, and warfarin can maintain long-term anticoagulation.

Choice A reason: Cyanosis and hypertension are not typically associated with severe anemia. While anemia can lead to tissue hypoxia, cyanosis is more related to respiratory or cardiovascular problems, and hypertension is not a common consequence of anemia.
Choice B reason: Dysrhythmias and expiratory wheezing are not directly related to severe anemia. Dysrhythmias can occur in severe cases due to the heart's increased workload, but expiratory wheezing is generally associated with respiratory conditions like asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Choice C reason: Pulmonary edema and fibrosis are not linked to severe anemia. These conditions are related to heart failure, lung injury, or chronic lung diseases, rather than anemia.
Choice D reason: Dyspnea and increased heart rate are expected findings in a severely anemic patient. Dyspnea, or difficulty breathing, occurs because the body is not getting enough oxygen due to the reduced number of red blood cells. The heart rate increases as a compensatory mechanism to deliver more oxygenated blood to the tissues.