A nurse is preparing to administer warfarin to a client who has chronic atrial fibrillation. Which of the following laboratory values should the nurse monitor prior to administering the medication?

Choice A Reason:

Temperature 37.3°C (99.1°F) is incorrect . While a slightly elevated temperature can sometimes accompany an infection, it's not specific to a bladder infection and might not be present in all cases.

Choice B Reason:

Changed mental status is incorrect. Bladder infections or urinary tract infections (UTIs) in older adults can often present with atypical symptoms, and changes in mental status or acute confusion are common indicators in this population. UTIs can cause subtle but significant alterations in mental function, particularly in the elderly, leading to confusion, agitation, or cognitive impairment.

Choice C Reason:

WBC count 9,000/mm3 (5000 to 10,000/mm3) is incorrect .A WBC count within the normal range doesn't necessarily rule out or confirm a bladder infection. In some cases, UTIs might not significantly elevate the white blood cell count, especially in localized infections.

Choice D Reason:

Diminished reflexes is incorrect . Diminished reflexes are not typically associated with a bladder infection. They might indicate other neurological or muscular issues but are not a common sign of a UTI.

Choice A Reason:
"I'll make sure I stay away from microwave ovens." This statement is incorrect . While there were concerns about interference in the past, modern pacemakers are generally not affected by household appliances like microwave ovens.
Choice B Reason:
"I should have an MRI, rather than a CAT scan, if necessary." This statement is incorrect. Both MRI and CAT scans have considerations when a person has a pacemaker. An MRI might be contraindicated due to the magnetic field, while a CAT scan might be a safer imaging choice.
Choice C Reason:
"I'll hold my cell phone against the ear on the opposite side of my body." This statement reflects an understanding of the precaution to avoid holding a cell phone directly over the implanted pacemaker. Keeping the phone on the opposite side helps minimize the potential interference with the pacemaker's function.
Choice D Reason:
"I shouldn't travel by plane because of airport security." This statement is incorrect. Airport security systems generally don't affect pacemakers, so traveling by plane is usually safe. However, informing security personnel about the presence of a pacemaker is a good practice.