If a patient opts for an herbal supplement over a prescribed medication, what would be the nurse’s best response?

Choice A rationale:

Aspiration prior to injection of enoxaparin is not recommended. Key reasons for this contraindication include:

Absence of Large Blood Vessels in Subcutaneous Tissue: Enoxaparin is administered subcutaneously, targeting the fatty tissue layer beneath the skin. This tissue generally lacks large blood vessels, significantly reducing the risk of accidental intravascular injection. Aspiration, traditionally intended to prevent such occurrences, becomes unnecessary in this context.

Potential for Hematoma Formation: The act of aspiration itself can create a vacuum within the subcutaneous tissue, leading to trauma and bleeding at the injection site. This can result in hematoma formation, causing discomfort and potential interference with medication absorption.

No Evidence of Benefit: Research studies have not demonstrated any clear advantages of aspiration when administering subcutaneous enoxaparin injections. In fact, some studies have suggested a potential increase in bruising and bleeding associated with aspiration.

Manufacturer Guidelines: Enoxaparin manufacturers explicitly advise against aspiration in their product instructions, aligning with current evidence-based practices.

Choice B rationale:

Massaging the injection site after administering enoxaparin is also not recommended.

Rationale for this contraindication:

Accelerated Absorption: Massaging can increase local blood flow, potentially accelerating the absorption of enoxaparin. This could lead to higher-than-intended drug levels in the bloodstream, increasing the risk of bleeding complications.

Discomfort and Hematoma Risk: Similar to aspiration, massage can create mechanical stress on the injection site, potentially causing bruising, discomfort, or hematoma formation.

Choice C rationale:

While a 1-mL syringe with a 32-gauge needle is a suitable option for subcutaneous injections, it's not the only correct choice. Considerations for syringe and needle selection:

Needle Length: The needle should be short enough to ensure subcutaneous administration, typically ranging from 5/8 to 1 inch in length.

Syringe Size: The syringe size should accommodate the volume of medication being administered, providing clear visibility of the dose.

Patient Comfort: Smaller-gauge needles (like 32-gauge) are often preferred for subcutaneous injections as they tend to cause less discomfort. However, other factors, such as medication viscosity and patient preferences, may influence needle selection.

Choice D rationale:

The abdomen is the preferred injection site for enoxaparin due to several reasons:

Abundant Subcutaneous Tissue: The abdomen generally has a thicker layer of subcutaneous tissue, providing ample space for medication absorption and reducing the risk of intramuscular injection.

Ease of Access: The abdomen is often easily accessible for self-injection or administration by a caregiver, promoting patient comfort and convenience.

Reduced Pain: Subcutaneous injections in the abdomen are typically less painful compared to other potential sites like the arms or thighs.

Additional considerations for enoxaparin administration:

Rotate Injection Sites: To prevent tissue damage and promote consistent absorption, it's crucial to rotate injection sites within the recommended areas (abdomen, thighs, upper buttocks).

Monitor for Adverse Effects: Observe for any signs of bleeding, bruising, or allergic reactions following enoxaparin administration.

Adhere to Storage Guidelines: Store enoxaparin at room temperature and protect it from light to ensure its efficacy.

Choice A rationale:

A lactose-free diet does not contraindicate acupuncture therapy. Lactose intolerance is a digestive condition that does not affect blood clotting or the ability to receive acupuncture safely.

Acupuncture needles are very fine and do not typically cause bleeding. Even if minor bleeding occurs, it is not a concern for individuals without bleeding disorders.

Therefore, a lactose-free diet does not pose a risk for acupuncture.

Choice B rationale:

Thrombocytopenia is a condition characterized by a low platelet count. Platelets are essential for blood clotting. Acupuncture involves the insertion of needles into the skin. This can cause minor bleeding, even when performed correctly.

In individuals with thrombocytopenia, even minor bleeding can be difficult to control and may lead to excessive bruising or hematoma formation.

Therefore, thrombocytopenia is a contraindication to acupuncture therapy due to the increased risk of bleeding complications.

Choice C rationale:

Herniated lumbar disks are a common condition that can cause back pain. Acupuncture is often used to treat back pain, including pain caused by herniated disks.

Studies have shown that acupuncture can be effective in reducing pain and improving function in patients with herniated disks.

Therefore, the presence of herniated lumbar disks does not contraindicate acupuncture therapy.

Choice D rationale:

Latex and strawberry allergies are not contraindications to acupuncture therapy. Acupuncture needles are typically made of stainless steel, which does not contain latex.

Additionally, acupuncture does not involve the use of strawberries or any other substances that are common allergens. Therefore, latex and strawberry allergies do not pose a risk for acupuncture.