The healthcare provider prescribes the anticoagulant heparin for a client with a pulmonary embolism. Before initiating the medication, the nurse should ensure that which drug is readily available in case of heparin overdose?
Warfarin.
Vitamin K.
Protamine sulfate.
Diphenhydramine HCI.
The Correct Answer is C
A. Warfarin: Warfarin is an oral anticoagulant used for long-term anticoagulation, but it is not used for reversing the effects of heparin. They are different classes of anticoagulants with distinct reversal agents.
B. Vitamin K: Vitamin K is used to reverse the effects of warfarin, not heparin.
C. Protamine sulfate: Protamine sulfate is the specific antidote for heparin overdose. It neutralizes the effects of heparin and is used to quickly reverse its anticoagulant effects in case of an overdose or excessive bleeding.
D. Diphenhydramine HCl: Diphenhydramine is an antihistamine and has no role in reversing anticoagulants.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Reduce caffeine and acidic intake: This is appropriate advice as caffeine and acidic foods can potentially affect uric acid levels and might exacerbate gout symptoms.
B. Double the dose if a dose is missed: This is incorrect and requires additional instruction. Allopurinol should not be doubled if a dose is missed. Instead, the missed dose should be taken as soon as possible unless it is almost time for the next dose. Doubling the dose could lead to increased risk of side effects or adverse reactions.
C. Avoid taking on an empty stomach: This is generally good advice, although allopurinol can be taken with or without food. Taking it with food might help reduce potential gastrointestinal discomfort.
D. Consume 2 liters of water daily: This is recommended to help prevent the formation of uric acid crystals and to ensure adequate hydration, which is beneficial while on allopurinol.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Frequently assess the client’s blood pressure: While monitoring blood pressure is important, it is not as critical as monitoring the ECG in cases of diltiazem overdose. Diltiazem is a calcium channel blocker that can lead to significant cardiac effects.
B. Observe the client for signs of gastric irritation: This is relevant for some medications, but in the case of diltiazem overdose, the primary concern is the potential for severe cardiac effects rather than gastric irritation.
C. Monitor electrocardiogram (ECG) continuously: Diltiazem overdose can lead to serious cardiac arrhythmias, such as bradycardia, AV block, or other conduction disturbances. Continuous ECG monitoring is crucial to detect these potentially life-threatening complications.
D. Assess for changes in level of consciousness: While important, changes in level of consciousness are secondary to the immediate need to monitor cardiac function closely in the context of diltiazem overdose.
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