The client diagnosed with deep vein thrombosis asks the nurse, "How does heparin work to help with my blood clot?" Which response is most accurate? "Heparin:
makes the blood less thick and easier to flow."
does not thin the blood: it prevents new clots from forming."
decreases the number of platelets so the blood clots more slowly."
dissolves the clot and decreases the formation of platelets."
The Correct Answer is B
A. Heparin does not actually "thin" the blood in the sense of reducing viscosity. Instead, it works by inhibiting certain factors in the coagulation cascade, preventing clot formation. Thus, this response does not accurately describe how heparin functions.
B. Heparin works by activating antithrombin III, which inhibits thrombin and factor Xa, thereby preventing the formation of new clots. It does not dissolve existing clots but helps to prevent the enlargement of existing ones and the formation of new clots.
C. Heparin does not decrease the number of platelets; rather, it interferes with the clotting process by inhibiting specific clotting factors. Platelets may still be present, but their ability to form clots is inhibited by the action of heparin.
D. Heparin does not dissolve existing clots; that function is typically performed by thrombolytic agents. Heparin primarily prevents new clot formation and the extension of existing clots. Additionally, it does not decrease platelet formation.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. A serum fasting glucose level of 101 mg/dL indicates a mild elevation but is not significantly high enough to contraindicate the use of TMP-SMX. It does not directly relate to the medication’s safety.
B. A platelet count of 160,000 µL is within normal limits (normal range is typically 150,000-450,000 µL). This result does not indicate any contraindication for using TMP-SMX.
C. A serum creatinine level of 2.5 mg/dL indicates impaired kidney function (normal range is typically 0.6-1.2 mg/dL). TMP-SMX can be contraindicated in patients with significant renal impairment due to the potential for drug accumulation and toxicity, particularly affecting renal function.
D. A hemoglobin level of 13.6 g/dL is within normal limits (normal range is approximately 13.5-17.5 g/dL for males and 12.0-15.5 g/dL for females). This result does not indicate a contraindication for using TMP- SMX.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. While costovertebral tenderness is significant and indicates kidney involvement, it is a common symptom of acute pyelonephritis and not necessarily a sign of deterioration. Immediate notification may not be warranted unless other concerning symptoms are present.
B. Although back massage may seem comforting, it is not indicated in this scenario. The kidneys are inflamed, and massage could exacerbate pain or discomfort. It does not address the underlying condition or the pain effectively.
C. The prone position is not typically recommended for clients with pyelonephritis. Instead, the client may be more comfortable in a position that does not put pressure on the kidneys, such as sitting up or lying on their back or side. This intervention does not directly address the pain or comfort of the client.
D. Offering an analgesic is the most appropriate action. Pain management is crucial for the comfort of the client, and an analgesic can help alleviate the discomfort associated with costovertebral tenderness. If the physician has prescribed an analgesic, administering it would be in line with promoting comfort and addressing the client’s needs.
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