A nurse is caring for a client who has a pulmonary embolism and has been on a heparin continuous infusion for 5 days. The provider prescribes warfarin PO without discontinuing the heparin. The client asks the nurse why both anticoagulants are necessary. Which of the following statements should the nurse make?
"Both heparin and warfarin work together to dissolve the clots."
"Warfarin takes several days to work, so the IV heparin will be used until the warfarin reaches a therapeutic level."
"The IV heparin increases the effects of the warfarin and decreases the length of your hospital stay."
"I will call the provider to get a prescription for discontinuing the IV heparin today."
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason: Heparin and warfarin do not work together to dissolve clots. Heparin acts quickly to prevent further clotting, while warfarin is used for long-term anticoagulation.
Choice B reason: Warfarin's onset of action is slow, requiring several days to reach therapeutic levels. During this time, heparin is used to provide immediate anticoagulation to prevent new clot formation or the growth of existing clots.
Choice C reason: IV heparin does not increase the effects of warfarin. They are used concurrently because of the delay in warfarin's onset of action.
Choice D reason: It is not appropriate to discontinue heparin immediately after starting warfarin due to the delay in warfarin reaching therapeutic levels. The overlap is necessary to ensure continuous anticoagulation.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Aspiration is a common complication in patients with dysphagia post-stroke due to impaired swallowing reflexes, leading to food or liquid entering the lungs.
Choice B reason: Gastroesophageal reflux disease could be a concern but is not directly related to dysphagia post-stroke.
Choice C reason: Peptic ulcer disease is not typically a complication of dysphagia post-stroke.
Choice D reason: Dumping syndrome is related to rapid gastric emptying post-meal, not dysphagia post-stroke.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason:Bubbling in the water seal chamber with exhalation can be normal, indicating that air is being evacuated from the pleural space.
Choice B reason:Crepitus, or subcutaneous emphysema, can indicate that air is leaking into the tissue around the chest tube site, which is a serious complication that requires immediate attention.
Choice C reason:
Movement of the trachea toward the unaffected side can indicate tension pneumothorax, a life-threatening condition that also requires immediate attention.
Choice D reason:If the eyelets of the chest tube are not visible, it may simply mean that the tube is inserted fully, which is not an immediate cause for concern unless other symptoms are present.
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