The nurse is preparing to administer warfarin sodium 10 mg PO to a client whose international normalized ratio (INR) is 5.0. Which intervention should the nurse implement?
Reference Range:
International 1 normalized ratio (INR) [INR: 0.8 to 1.1]
Administer the scheduled dose.
Discontinue the warfarin schedule.
Withhold warfarin for 24 hours
Obtain another INR analysis immediately.
The Correct Answer is C
A) Administer the scheduled dose: Administering the scheduled dose of warfarin when the INR is 5.0 is not appropriate because this INR level is significantly elevated, indicating a high risk of bleeding. Warfarin dosing should be adjusted based on INR levels to prevent complications such as excessive bleeding.
B) Discontinue the warfarin schedule: Completely discontinuing warfarin may not be necessary unless there are additional factors or signs of bleeding. It is essential to take appropriate action based on the INR level, but discontinuation should be guided by further evaluation and healthcare provider recommendations.
C) Withhold warfarin for 24 hours: Withholding the dose of warfarin is the correct action when faced with an elevated INR of 5.0. This intervention is crucial to prevent potential bleeding complications while waiting for further evaluation and guidance from the healthcare provider regarding additional management, such as administration of vitamin K or other reversal agents.
D) Obtain another INR analysis immediately: While obtaining another INR analysis can be helpful in monitoring trends, it is not the immediate priority if the INR is already 5.0. The primary action should be to withhold the dose and consult with the healthcare provider to determine the appropriate next steps for managing the elevated INR and ensuring patient safety.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. "I need to notify my healthcare provider if I lose my appetite or get nauseated." This statement shows understanding because loss of appetite and nausea can be symptoms of digoxin toxicity or side effects, and it is important to report these symptoms to a healthcare provider. Monitoring for such side effects is crucial when taking digoxin.
B. "I should take my furosemide only if I have shortness of breath or swelling in my feet." This statement is incorrect because furosemide, a diuretic, should be taken according to the prescribed schedule, not based on symptoms. It is used to manage fluid retention and symptoms of heart failure, and its use should not be dependent solely on the presence of symptoms.
C. "I need to check my blood pressure three times a day." While monitoring blood pressure is important, it is not specifically required for patients on digoxin and furosemide unless instructed by a healthcare provider. The focus should be more on monitoring for symptoms of drug side effects and electrolyte imbalances.
D. "If I lose more than one pound in a week, I should hold my next dose of furosemide." Weight loss can be a normal effect of furosemide due to fluid loss, and the decision to hold a dose should be based on specific medical advice and not solely on weight change.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Limit the intake of foods high in potassium: Spironolactone is a potassium-sparing diuretic, which means it can cause potassium levels to rise. Therefore, the nurse should advise the patient to limit the intake of potassium-rich foods to avoid hyperkalemia.
B. Cover your skin before going outside: This instruction is not specifically related to the use of spironolactone. It is more relevant for medications that cause photosensitivity or skin reactions.
C. Replace salt with a salt substitute: Many salt substitutes contain potassium, which could increase the risk of hyperkalemia when taking spironolactone. Therefore, replacing salt with a potassium-containing salt substitute is not recommended.
D. Monitor skin for excessive bruising: While monitoring for bruising is important, it is more relevant for anticoagulants or medications that affect blood clotting, not specifically for spironolactone.
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