A postoperative patient reports a new pain in the left lower extremity. The nurse notes swelling in the lower leg, which feels warm to the touch. The nurse notifies the MD of the patient's change in condition. Which medication will the RN anticipate giving?
Aspirin
Clopidogrel (Plavix)
Enoxaparin (Lovenox)
Warfarin (Coumadin)
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A reason:
Aspirin is an antiplatelet medication used to prevent blood clots in the arteries but is not the primary treatment for deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which is likely in this scenario. The patient's symptoms suggest a possible DVT, which requires anticoagulation therapy.
Choice B reason:
Clopidogrel (Plavix) is another antiplatelet medication, similar to aspirin, and is not the primary treatment for DVT. It is more commonly used to prevent clotting in arterial diseases such as coronary artery disease but not for venous thromboembolism.
Choice C reason:
Enoxaparin (Lovenox) is a low molecular weight heparin used for the initial treatment of DVT. It is an anticoagulant that helps prevent further clot formation and allows the body to break down the existing clot. Given the patient's symptoms, enoxaparin is the appropriate medication to anticipate for managing DVT.
Choice D reason:
Warfarin (Coumadin) is an oral anticoagulant used for long-term prevention of thromboembolism but is not typically used for initial DVT treatment due to its slow onset of action. Enoxaparin or other forms of heparin are preferred for immediate anticoagulation.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Taking an antacid one hour after ranitidine is recommended because antacids can affect the absorption of H2 receptor blockers like ranitidine. Ranitidine works by reducing stomach acid production, whereas antacids neutralize existing acid. Taking the antacid too close to the ranitidine can reduce the effectiveness of the ranitidine by altering the stomach's pH balance and affecting its absorption.
Choice B reason:
Taking an antacid and ranitidine at the same time does not enhance their effect. In fact, this can interfere with the absorption and effectiveness of ranitidine. Antacids can increase the pH of the stomach, which may reduce the absorption of ranitidine, thus diminishing its acid-reducing effects.
Choice C reason:
Taking both medications at the same time before meals is not advisable for the same reason as above. The simultaneous administration can reduce the effectiveness of ranitidine, as the increased pH caused by the antacid can interfere with the absorption of the H2 receptor blocker, thereby not providing the intended therapeutic effect.
Choice D reason:
The patient can take both medications, but they should be timed correctly to ensure optimal effectiveness. Saying that the patient needs to be on one medication only is incorrect. Both medications can be used together, but the antacid should be taken after ranitidine to avoid any interaction that might impair the effectiveness of ranitidine.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Amoxicillin is an antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections. It has no role in the management of atrial fibrillation, which is a cardiac rhythm disorder. Antibiotics do not address the prevention of thromboembolism or the control of heart rate or rhythm.
Choice B reason:
Reglan (metoclopramide) is a medication used to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and gastroparesis. It does not have any indication for use in atrial fibrillation. The management of atrial fibrillation focuses on rate or rhythm control and anticoagulation.
Choice C reason:
Rivaroxaban (Xarelto) is an anticoagulant that is commonly prescribed for patients with atrial fibrillation to prevent stroke and systemic embolism. Since atrial fibrillation increases the risk of thromboembolism, anticoagulation is a crucial component of the treatment plan to reduce the risk of stroke.
Choice D reason:
Omeprazole is a proton pump inhibitor used to treat acid-related stomach issues such as GERD. It is not relevant to the management of atrial fibrillation. The primary concerns in managing atrial fibrillation are controlling the heart rate and preventing thromboembolism, which omeprazole does not address.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.