A nurse is caring for a client who has cirrhosis and a prothrombin time of 30 seconds. Which of the following medications should the nurse plan to administer?
Warfarin
Vitamin K
Heparin
Ferrous sulfate
The Correct Answer is B
A. Warfarin:
Warfarin is an anticoagulant that works by inhibiting the synthesis of certain clotting factors, including factors II, VII, IX, and X. While it is used to prevent thromboembolic events, in a client with cirrhosis and an elevated PT, the priority is addressing the coagulation factor deficiency rather than adding an anticoagulant.
B. Vitamin K:
Vitamin K is the antidote for warfarin, and it helps in the synthesis of clotting factors. In cirrhosis, there can be impaired synthesis of clotting factors due to liver dysfunction. Administering vitamin K can aid in correcting coagulation abnormalities.
C. Heparin:
Heparin is another anticoagulant, but it does not reverse the effects of warfarin. It works by a different mechanism and is typically used in acute settings, such as deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism. It is not the primary intervention for an elevated PT in cirrhosis.
D. Ferrous sulfate:
Ferrous sulfate is an iron supplement and is not indicated for the correction of an elevated PT. Iron supplements are typically used to address iron deficiency anemia.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. "Eat four small meals each day":
Smaller, more frequent meals reduce gastric distension and lower gastric pressure, which decreases reflux of stomach contents into the esophagus. Large meals increase intra-abdominal pressure and worsen GERD symptoms.
B. "Sleep on your left side":
Sleeping on the left side may reduce symptoms of GERD for some individuals. This position can keep the stomach below the esophagus, minimizing reflux. However, individual preferences and comfort should be considered.
C. "Wait to go to bed for 1 hour after eating":
This instruction helps reduce the risk of reflux while lying down. Waiting after eating allows gravity to aid in digestion and reduces the likelihood of stomach contents backing up into the esophagus during sleep.
D. "Drink milk to soothe your stomach":
While milk might provide temporary relief for some people by neutralizing stomach acid, it can stimulate acid production, potentially exacerbating GERD symptoms in the long run. Therefore, it's not a recommended solution for managing GERD.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Lactulose is not used to decrease potassium levels. It is a laxative that works by drawing water into the colon, softening stools and promoting bowel movements.
B. Lactulose is used to decrease ammonia levels in clients with cirrhosis. Ammonia is a byproduct of protein metabolism, and when the liver is compromised, it may not effectively convert ammonia into urea, leading to elevated ammonia levels in the bloodstream. Lactulose helps reduce ammonia absorption in the colon.
C. Lactulose does not decrease glucose levels significantly. It is not primarily used as an antidiabetic medication.
D. Lactulose does not affect bicarbonate levels significantly. It primarily targets ammonia reduction in clients with cirrhosis.
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