A nurse is preparing to administer medication to a client. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?

Warfarin is an anticoagulant that inhibits vitamin K-dependent clotting factors and increases the risk of bleeding. The client should use a soft-bristled toothbrush and an electric razor to prevent trauma and bleeding from minor cuts or abrasions.

A) Correct. This statement indicates that the client understands how to prevent bleeding while taking warfarin.

B) This statement indicates a lack of understanding of the teaching. The client should avoid sudden changes in vitamin K intake, as this can affect the therapeutic level of warfarin and increase the risk of clotting or bleeding. Green leafy vegetables are high in vitamin K and should be consumed in consistent amounts.

C) This statement indicates a lack of understanding of the teaching. The client should avoid nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen while taking warfarin, as they can increase the risk of bleeding. The client should consult with the provider before taking any over-the-counter medications for pain relief.

D) This statement indicates a lack of understanding of the teaching. Warfarin does not affect blood pressure directly but rather affects blood clotting. The client should monitor their international normalized ratio (INR), which measures the effectiveness of warfarin, regularly while taking this medication.

The nurse should follow the six rights of medication administration, which include the right client, right medication, right dose, right route, right time, and right documentation. The first action the nurse should take is to compare the medication label with the MAR to ensure that they match and that the medication has been prescribed for the client.

A) This is an important action, but not the first one. The nurse should check the client's identification band after comparing the medication label with the MAR and before administering the medication.

B) This is an important action, but not the first one. The nurse should explain the purpose and side effects of the medication after comparing the medication label with the MAR and before administering the medication.

C) Correct. This is the first action the nurse should take to ensure that the right medication is being given to the right client.

D) This is an important action, but not the first one. The nurse should assess the client for contraindications and allergies after comparing the medication label with the MAR and before administering the medication.