Nursing Elites

1. A client with deep vein thrombosis has been on heparin continuous infusion for 5 days. The provider prescribes warfarin PO without discontinuing the heparin. The client asks the nurse why both anticoagulants are necessary. Which of the following statements should the nurse make?

• A. Warfarin takes several days to work, so the IV heparin will be used until the warfarin reaches a therapeutic level.
• B. I will call the provider to get a prescription for discontinuing the IV heparin today.
• C. Both heparin and warfarin work together to dissolve the clots.
• D. The IV heparin increases the effects of the warfarin and decreases the length of your hospital stay.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because warfarin takes several days to reach a therapeutic level and exert its full anticoagulant effect. During this time, the IV heparin is continued to prevent clotting until the warfarin is effective. Both medications are used together temporarily for this reason. Discontinuing heparin prematurely can increase the risk of clot formation. Therefore, the nurse should explain to the client that the IV heparin will be continued until the warfarin reaches a therapeutic level.

2. A client has a new prescription for Phenelzine for the treatment of depression. Which of the following indicates that the client has developed an adverse effect of this medication?

• A. Orthostatic hypotension
• B. Hearing loss
• C. Gastrointestinal bleeding
• D. Weight loss

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Orthostatic hypotension is a known adverse effect of MAOIs, such as Phenelzine. It is characterized by a drop in blood pressure upon standing, which can lead to dizziness or fainting. Monitoring for orthostatic hypotension is crucial when administering MAOIs to prevent potential complications. Hearing loss (Choice B) is not a typical adverse effect associated with Phenelzine. Gastrointestinal bleeding (Choice C) is more commonly linked to NSAIDs or anticoagulants. Weight loss (Choice D) is not a typical adverse effect of Phenelzine and is more likely related to other factors such as appetite changes or metabolic issues.

3. A healthcare professional is educating a client who has a new prescription for Vitamin B12 injections. Which of the following statements should the healthcare professional include?

• A. Take the medication with a full glass of water.
• B. You will need to take this medication for the rest of your life.
• C. Expect a metallic taste in your mouth.
• D. Avoid consuming dairy products.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'You will need to take this medication for the rest of your life.' Clients with conditions like pernicious anemia or other causes of vitamin B12 deficiency may require lifelong cyanocobalamin supplementation to prevent deficiency. This is because their bodies are unable to absorb B12 from dietary sources adequately, necessitating ongoing injections to maintain optimal B12 levels. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect. A full glass of water is not necessary for Vitamin B12 injections. Metallic taste in the mouth is not a common side effect of Vitamin B12 injections, and there is no need to avoid consuming dairy products specifically in relation to Vitamin B12 injections.

4. A nurse is caring for a client who is receiving treatment with vincristine. Which of the following findings should the nurse monitor?

• A. Hyperkalemia
• B. Neurotoxicity
• C. Neutropenia
• D. Bradycardia

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Neurotoxicity. Vincristine is known to cause neurotoxicity as an adverse effect due to its impact on the nervous system. Monitoring for symptoms such as peripheral neuropathy, muscle weakness, and tingling sensations is crucial. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because hyperkalemia, neutropenia, and bradycardia are not typically associated with vincristine therapy.

5. What is the antidote for Heparin?

• A. Protamine sulfate
• B. Vitamin K
• C. Naloxone
• D. Toradol

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Protamine sulfate. Heparin is an anticoagulant that prevents blood clotting. Protamine sulfate is the antidote for Heparin as it binds to heparin, neutralizing its anticoagulant effects. Vitamin K is not the antidote for Heparin; it is used to reverse the effects of warfarin, another anticoagulant. Naloxone is an opioid antagonist for opioids, and Toradol is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) for pain relief. Therefore, the correct antidote for Heparin is Protamine sulfate.

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