The nurse is preparing to administer a client’s warfarin sodium 5 mg PO at 1900. Upon entering the client’s room, the nurse finds several large, new ecchymotic areas on the client’s extremities.
What should be the nurse’s initial action?
Hold the warfarin until the next day’s dose and notify the laboratory.
Administer the daily dose of warfarin and notify the healthcare provider so tomorrow’s dose can be adjusted.
Administer the daily dose of warfarin as these are the expected side effects of the medication.
Hold the warfarin until the healthcare provider is notified of the assessment findings.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale
While holding the warfarin and notifying the laboratory could be appropriate actions in some situations, they would not address the immediate concern of the large, new ecchymotic areas on the client’s extremities.
Choice B rationale
Administering the daily dose of warfarin and notifying the healthcare provider for a dose adjustment the next day could potentially exacerbate the bleeding risk, given the presence of the large, new ecchymotic areas.
Choice C rationale
Large, new ecchymotic areas are not expected side effects of warfarin. They could indicate a serious problem such as excessive anticoagulation.
Choice D rationale
The presence of large, new ecchymotic areas could indicate excessive anticoagulation, which is a serious complication of warfarin therapy. Therefore, holding the warfarin and notifying the healthcare provider of the assessment findings would be the most appropriate initial action.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
While it might seem that smaller doses of both drugs could be used when they are prescribed together, this is not the primary reason for using heparin and warfarin together. Both drugs have different mechanisms of action and are used for their unique therapeutic effects.
Choice B rationale
The combination of heparin and warfarin does not facilitate thrombolysis more quickly. Thrombolysis is the process of breaking down clots, and while these medications can prevent the formation of new clots, they do not actively break down existing ones.
Choice C rationale
Heparin and warfarin are often used together in the treatment of thrombophlebitis because they provide different benefits. Heparin acts quickly to prevent further clotting and allows the body to naturally break down existing clots. Warfarin, on the other hand, takes several days to become effective. Therefore, heparin is used to provide immediate anticoagulation until the warfarin becomes effective.
Choice D rationale
While it’s true that the combination of heparin and warfarin provides immediate anticoagulation, this is primarily due to the action of heparin. Warfarin takes several days to become effective, so it does not contribute to the immediate anticoagulant effect.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Soaking feet once daily in warm water is not recommended for diabetic patients. This is because prolonged soaking can lead to skin breakdown and increase the risk of foot ulcers and infections.
Choice B rationale
Utilizing a mirror to examine the soles of the feet is a recommended practice for diabetic patients. This allows them to check for any cuts, sores, blisters, or changes in the skin that they may not be able to see otherwise. Early detection of these issues can prevent serious complications such as infections and ulcers.
Choice C rationale
Cutting nails in a curved direction is not advised for diabetic patients. This can lead to ingrown toenails, which can cause sores and infections. It’s recommended to cut the nails straight across to avoid this.
Choice D rationale
Using a commercial medicine to remove a corn is not recommended for diabetic patients. These products can damage the skin and increase the risk of ulcers and infections. Any issues with corns or calluses should be addressed by a healthcare professional.
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