A nurse is caring for a client who has deep vein thrombosis (DVT). The client has received intravenous (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?

Choice A reason : Aspirin is well-known for its antiplatelet properties, which inhibit platelet aggregation and thus prevent the formation of new blood clots. This is particularly important following a myocardial infarction, as it helps to prevent further clotting events that could lead to additional heart attacks or strokes. Aspirin's effect on platelets is so significant that it is often one of the first medications administered in the setting of acute coronary syndrome.

Choice B reason : While aspirin does have analgesic properties, this is not the primary reason it is prescribed post-myocardial infarction. The analgesic effect of aspirin is more commonly utilized for minor pains and aches, and it is not sufficient for the pain associated with coronary artery disease.

Choice C reason : Aspirin can reduce fever, but this is not relevant to its use in coronary artery disease. Fever reduction is not a concern when prescribing aspirin for myocardial infarction patients, as the primary goal is to manage the risk of thrombosis.

Choice D reason : Aspirin does have anti-inflammatory effects, but again, this is not the primary reason for its prescription following a myocardial infarction. While inflammation plays a role in atherosclerosis and coronary artery disease, the anti-inflammatory properties of aspirin are not the main focus in the context of post-myocardial infarction treatment.

Choice A reason f:Intermittent claudication is a classic symptom of PAD, characterized by muscle pain or cramping in the legs triggered by exercise, such as walking, which typically disappears after a few minutes of rest. This symptom occurs due to inadequate blood flow to the muscles during increased demand.

Choice B reason :Darkened skin color near the extremities, also known as hyperpigmentation, can occur in PAD due to the chronic ischemia and the resultant buildup of waste products in the tissue, which may lead to skin changes.

Choice C reason :Warm extremities are not typically associated with PAD. In fact, patients with PAD may have cooler extremities compared to the rest of the body due to reduced blood flow.

Choice D reason :Edema is not a common finding in PAD. Instead, PAD can lead to decreased skin temperature, loss of hair, shiny skin, and non-healing wounds on the extremities due to poor circulation.