A nurse is caring for a client who has been prescribed warfarin for atrial fibrillation. Which of the following laboratory tests should the nurse monitor to assess the effectiveness of the medication?

Prothrombin time (PT) is a measure of how long it takes for blood to clot. Warfarin is an anticoagulant that prolongs the PT and prevents blood clots from forming. The nurse should monitor the PT and adjust the warfarin dose accordingly to maintain a therapeutic range.

Incorrect choices:

b) Activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT): aPTT is another measure of blood clotting time, but it is used to monitor heparin therapy, not warfarin therapy.

c) Platelet count: Platelet count is a measure of how many platelets are in the blood. Platelets are involved in blood clotting, but they are not affected by warfarin therapy.

d) Hemoglobin level: Hemoglobin level is a measure of how much oxygen-carrying protein is in the blood. Haemoglobin level can be affected by bleeding or anaemia, but it is not directly related to warfarin therapy.

Using a latex-free syringe and needle is the appropriate action to prevent an allergic reaction in a client who has a latex allergy. The nurse should also check the medication label and vial for any latex content.

Incorrect choices:

b) Apply a latex bandage over the injection site: This is incorrect as it can cause skin irritation and allergic reaction in a client who has a latex allergy.

c) Wear latex gloves during the procedure: This is incorrect as it can expose the client and the nurse to latex particles and cause an allergic reaction.

d) Dilute the medication with normal saline: This is incorrect as it can alter the concentration and effectiveness of the medication.