A nurse is receiving a client who is immediately postoperative following hip arthroplasty. Which of the following medications should the nurse plan to administer for DVT prophylaxis?
Warfarin PO
Enoxaparin subcutaneous
Aspirin PO
Heparin infusion
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason: Warfarin PO is not a suitable medication for DVT prophylaxis in the immediate postoperative period, as it has a slow onset of action and requires frequent monitoring of the INR (international normalized ratio). Warfarin may be used for long-term anticoagulation, but it is not effective for preventing the formation of new clots.
Choice B reason: Enoxaparin subcutaneous is a suitable medication for DVT prophylaxis in the immediate postoperative period, as it has a rapid onset of action and does not require frequent monitoring of the coagulation status. Enoxaparin is a low-molecular-weight heparin that inhibits the formation of thrombin and prevents the growth of existing clots.
Choice C reason: Aspirin PO is not a suitable medication for DVT prophylaxis in the immediate postoperative period, as it has a weak anticoagulant effect and may increase the risk of bleeding. Aspirin is an antiplatelet agent that inhibits the aggregation of platelets and prevents the formation of arterial clots, but it is not effective for preventing venous clots.
Choice D reason: Heparin infusion is not a suitable medication for DVT prophylaxis in the immediate postoperative period, as it requires continuous intravenous administration and frequent monitoring of the aPTT (activated partial thromboplastin time). Heparin is an unfractionated heparin that inhibits the formation of thrombin and prevents the growth of existing clots, but it has a narrow therapeutic window and a high risk of bleeding.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Applying a new transdermal patch when chest pain is experienced is not a correct instruction, as it may delay the relief of the pain and increase the risk of adverse effects. Transdermal nitroglycerin is a long-acting form of nitrate that is used for the prevention of angina attacks, not for the treatment of acute episodes. The client should use a short-acting form of nitrate, such as sublingual or spray, for the immediate relief of chest pain.
Choice B reason: Applying the transdermal patch in the morning is a correct instruction, as it helps to maintain a steady level of nitrate in the blood throughout the day and prevent angina attacks. Transdermal nitroglycerin has a duration of action of about 12 to 24 hours, depending on the dose and the individual response. The client should apply the patch in the morning and remove it at night, to allow a nitrate-free interval of at least 8 hours and prevent the development of tolerance.
Choice C reason: Applying the transdermal patch in the same location as the previous patch is not a correct instruction, as it may cause skin irritation and reduce the absorption of the medication. Transdermal nitroglycerin should be applied to a clean, dry, and hairless area of the skin, preferably on the chest, upper arm, or back. The client should rotate the application sites and avoid areas that are exposed to heat, moisture, or friction.
Choice D reason: Applying a new transdermal patch once a week is not a correct instruction, as it may not provide adequate protection against angina attacks and increase the risk of rebound angina. Transdermal nitroglycerin should be applied daily, with a nitrate-free interval of at least 8 hours, to maintain a therapeutic level of nitrate in the blood and prevent the loss of efficacy. The client should follow the prescribed dosing schedule and consult the provider before making any changes.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: The client has a history of hypertension is not the correct answer. Hypertension is a condition in which the blood pressure is abnormally high, usually above 140/90 mmHg. Propranolol is a beta-blocker that lowers the blood pressure and reduces the workload of the heart. Propranolol is indicated for the treatment of hypertension and angina pectoris, which is a type of chest pain caused by reduced blood flow to the heart. The nurse does not need to report this finding to the provider, as it is consistent with the prescription.
Choice B reason: The client has a history of hypothyroidism is not the correct answer. Hypothyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormones, which regulate the metabolism and energy levels. Propranolol can mask some of the signs of hypothyroidism, such as tachycardia, tremors, and anxiety. Propranolol can also interfere with the absorption and conversion of thyroid hormones. The nurse should monitor the client's thyroid function tests and report any abnormal values to the provider, but this finding is not a contraindication to the use of propranolol.
Choice C reason: The client has a history of bronchial asthma is the correct answer. Bronchial asthma is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the airways that causes wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath. Propranolol is a non-selective beta-blocker that blocks the beta-1 receptors in the heart and the beta-2 receptors in the lungs. Blocking the beta-2 receptors can cause bronchoconstriction, which can worsen the symptoms of asthma and trigger an asthma attack. Propranolol is contraindicated in clients who have bronchial asthma, and the nurse should report this finding to the provider immediately.
Choice D reason: The client has a history of migraine headaches is not the correct answer. Migraine headaches are recurrent episodes of severe and throbbing pain, usually on one side of the head, that can be accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound. Propranolol is effective in preventing migraine headaches, as it reduces the frequency and severity of the attacks. Propranolol is indicated for the prophylaxis of migraine headaches, and the nurse does not need to report this finding to the provider, as it is consistent with the prescription.
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