A nurse is caring for a client who has a deep vein thrombosis, who received IV heparin for the past 5 days, and now has a new prescription for oral warfarin in addition to the heparin. The client asks the nurse if both medications are necessary. Which of the following is an appropriate response by the nurse?
"Heparin enhances the effects of the warfarin."
"Both heparin and warfarin work together to dissolve the clots."
"Heparin will be continued until the warfarin reaches a therapeutic level!"
"I will ask the charge nurse to call your provider and get an explanation"
The Correct Answer is C
A) "Heparin enhances the effects of the warfarin.": This statement is incorrect. Heparin and warfarin work through different mechanisms. Heparin acts quickly by inhibiting clot formation through antithrombin, while warfarin acts slower by inhibiting vitamin K-dependent clotting factors. They do not directly enhance each other's effects.
B) "Both heparin and warfarin work together to dissolve the clots.": This is inaccurate. Neither heparin nor warfarin dissolve existing clots; they prevent new clots from forming and existing clots from growing. The body's natural processes will eventually dissolve the clot.
C) "Heparin will be continued until the warfarin reaches a therapeutic level!": This is correct. Heparin is used initially because it acts quickly. Warfarin takes several days to reach therapeutic levels. Overlapping the two ensures continuous anticoagulation until warfarin is effective.
D) "I will ask the charge nurse to call your provider and get an explanation.": While involving the provider for further explanation can be helpful, it does not directly answer the client’s question. Providing accurate information about the overlapping use of heparin and warfarin is more appropriate in this context.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) Regular insulin:
Regular insulin is a short-acting insulin that acts quickly to lower blood glucose levels. It is suitable for managing diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), which presents with symptoms such as confusion, flushed skin, and a fruity or acetone odor on the breath. Regular insulin helps to reduce ketone production and normalize blood glucose levels rapidly.
B) Glargine:
Glargine is a long-acting insulin that provides basal insulin coverage over an extended period. It is not typically used for the acute management of diabetic ketoacidosis due to its slow onset and prolonged duration of action.
C) NPH (Neutral Protamine Hagedorn):
NPH insulin is an intermediate-acting insulin that has a slower onset and duration compared to regular insulin. It is not the first choice for treating diabetic ketoacidosis due to its slower action.
D) Detemir:
Detemir is a long-acting insulin analogue that provides basal insulin coverage. Similar to glargine, it is not ideal for the acute treatment of diabetic ketoacidosis due to its slower onset and extended duration of action.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A) "I will take this medication with meals":
Taking phenytoin with meals or food can help reduce gastrointestinal upset and improve absorption. This statement demonstrates an understanding of the importance of timing in medication administration.
B) "I have made an appointment to see my dentist next week":
Regular dental check-ups are essential for clients taking phenytoin because it can cause gingival hyperplasia (overgrowth of gum tissue). This proactive approach indicates the client's awareness of potential side effects and the need for preventive dental care.
C) "I will be glad when my seizures stop so I can quit taking this medicine":
This statement indicates a misunderstanding about the management of epilepsy with phenytoin. Phenytoin is typically used as a long-term treatment to prevent seizures, not as a medication that can be stopped once seizures cease. This misunderstanding warrants further education about the chronic nature of epilepsy management.
D) "I will notify my provider before taking any other medications":
Phenytoin can interact with many other medications, affecting its efficacy or increasing the risk of side effects. Notifying the healthcare provider before starting any new medications is crucial to prevent potential drug interactions.
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