A nurse is educating a client about the importance of compliance with anticoagulant therapy for deep vein thrombosis (DVT). The client asks, "Why is it essential to take these medications?" What is the nurse's best response?
"Anticoagulants help dissolve existing blood clots in the veins."
"These medications prevent the formation of new blood clots in your veins."
"They reduce pain and inflammation associated with DVT."
"Anticoagulants improve blood flow to the affected limb."
The Correct Answer is B
A) This choice is incorrect because anticoagulants do not dissolve existing blood clots in the veins. They prevent further clot formation and allow the body's natural mechanisms to dissolve the clot over time.
B) This choice is correct. Anticoagulants work by inhibiting the clotting factors in the blood, which prevents the formation of new blood clots and reduces the risk of the existing clot enlarging or causing additional complications.
C) This choice is incorrect because while anticoagulants may indirectly reduce pain and inflammation by preventing further clot formation, their primary action is to prevent clotting, not directly reduce pain and inflammation associated with DVT.
D) This choice is incorrect because while anticoagulants can improve blood flow by preventing clot formation, they do not directly "improve" blood flow to the affected limb.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A) This choice is incorrect because auscultating the lungs for crackles is not directly related to confirming the presence of deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Lung auscultation may be performed to assess for potential complications of DVT, such as pulmonary embolism.
B) This choice is correct. Homans' sign is a clinical test used to assess for the presence of DVT. The nurse flexes the client's knee and gently dorsiflexes the foot. A positive Homans' sign is indicated by calf pain or discomfort during dorsiflexion and may suggest the presence of a blood clot in the deep veins of the leg.
C) This choice is incorrect because measuring blood pressure in both arms is not a specific assessment for deep vein thrombosis (DVT). It may be done as part of a routine assessment but does not confirm the presence of DVT.
D) This choice is incorrect because performing a capillary refill test is not specific to DVT assessment. Capillary refill is a measure of peripheral perfusion and may be useful in assessing overall circulatory status, but it does not directly confirm the presence of DVT.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) This choice is correct. Prolonged sitting or standing in one position can lead to reduced blood flow and stasis, increasing the risk of DVT. Encouraging regular movement and changing positions can help prevent clot formation.
B) This choice is incorrect because massaging the legs may not be suitable for everyone and is not a primary preventive measure for DVT. While it can aid in improving blood circulation, it should be done cautiously and not as a standalone preventive action.
C) This choice is incorrect because increasing the intake of vitamin K-rich foods is not a preventive measure for DVT. Vitamin K is involved in the clotting process, but it does not directly impact the risk of DVT.
D) This choice is incorrect because taking over-the-counter pain medications for leg discomfort does not prevent DVT. While pain management may be necessary for symptomatic relief, it does not address the underlying risk factors for DVT.
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