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A client is receiving heparin sodium 1000 units per hour via an infusion and warfarin sodium 2.5 mg PO for thrombophlebitis in the left leg.
The nurse educates the client that heparin and warfarin are prescribed together because:

A.

Smaller doses of both drugs can be used with this method.

B.

This combination facilitates the thrombolysis more quickly.

C.

The heparin provides anticoagulation until the warfarin becomes effective.

D.

This combination provides immediate anticoagulation.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

Choice A rationale

While it might seem that smaller doses of both drugs could be used when they are prescribed together, this is not the primary reason for using heparin and warfarin together. Both drugs have different mechanisms of action and are used for their unique therapeutic effects.

Choice B rationale

The combination of heparin and warfarin does not facilitate thrombolysis more quickly. Thrombolysis is the process of breaking down clots, and while these medications can prevent the formation of new clots, they do not actively break down existing ones.

Choice C rationale

Heparin and warfarin are often used together in the treatment of thrombophlebitis because they provide different benefits. Heparin acts quickly to prevent further clotting and allows the body to naturally break down existing clots. Warfarin, on the other hand, takes several days to become effective. Therefore, heparin is used to provide immediate anticoagulation until the warfarin becomes effective.

Choice D rationale

While it’s true that the combination of heparin and warfarin provides immediate anticoagulation, this is primarily due to the action of heparin. Warfarin takes several days to become effective, so it does not contribute to the immediate anticoagulant effect.


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Related Questions

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

Choice A rationale

Raynaud’s disease is a condition that affects blood flow to the extremities, including the fingers and toes, in response to cold temperatures or stress. Wearing heavy-duty gloves during cold exposures can help to keep the hands warm and reduce the risk of a Raynaud’s attack.

Choice B rationale

While avoiding cold temperatures can help to prevent Raynaud’s attacks, it is not always practical or possible for individuals to refrain from going outdoors during the winter months.

Choice C rationale

Raising the hands above the head is not typically recommended to relieve spasms associated with Raynaud’s disease.

Choice D rationale

Using small rubber balls to exercise the hands and fingers daily may be beneficial for some individuals with Raynaud’s disease, but it is not typically the primary recommendation for managing this condition.

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Choice A rationale

While it is true that warfarin’s effectiveness can be affected by vitamin K, found in green leafy vegetables, it is not necessary to completely omit these from the diet. Instead, maintaining a consistent intake of vitamin K can help keep INR levels stable.

Choice B rationale

Over-the-counter pain relief medications, especially those that are nonsteroidal anti- inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), can increase the risk of bleeding when taken with warfarin. Therefore, this advice is not correct.

Choice C rationale

Regular laboratory tests, specifically the International Normalized Ratio (INR), are crucial when taking warfarin to monitor its effectiveness and adjust the dosage if necessary.

Choice D rationale

Using an electric razor can help prevent cuts and bleeding, which is important because warfarin is a blood thinner. However, this information is not as critical as obtaining regular laboratory tests.

Choice E rationale

Obtaining a medical alert bracelet can be beneficial for individuals taking warfarin, as it can alert healthcare professionals in an emergency situation about the individual’s use of a blood thinner. However, this information is not as critical as obtaining regular laboratory tests.

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