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 is being educated by a healthcare provider about a new prescription for Digoxin. Which of the following client statements indicates an understanding of the teaching?

• A. I will take the medication with a high-fiber meal.
• B. I should report any vision changes to my healthcare provider.
• C. I will take the medication if my heart rate is below 60 bpm.
• D. I should avoid dairy products while taking this medication.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Visual disturbances, such as blurred vision or seeing halos, can be a sign of digoxin toxicity. It is crucial for the client to report any changes in vision to their healthcare provider promptly to prevent serious complications. Choice A is incorrect because taking Digoxin with a high-fiber meal can affect its absorption. Choice C is incorrect because taking Digoxin based on heart rate alone is not recommended without healthcare provider supervision. Choice D is incorrect because there is no specific interaction between Digoxin and dairy products.

3. A client is being educated about Fluticasone for treating Perennial Rhinitis. Which statement by the client indicates an understanding of the teaching?

• A. I should use the spray every 4 hours while I am awake.
• B. It can take as long as 3 weeks before the medication takes maximum effect.
• C. This medication can also be used to treat motion sickness.
• D. I can use this medication when my nasal passages are blocked.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Correct! While the client may experience some benefits of Fluticasone within a few hours, the maximum effects may not be seen until up to 3 weeks of consistent use. This understanding is important to manage expectations and ensure the client uses the medication effectively for the treatment of Perennial Rhinitis.

4. Which of the following is the antidote for Heparin toxicity?

• A. Protamine
• B. Methylene blue
• C. N-acetylcysteine
• D. Glucagon

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Protamine is the specific antidote for Heparin toxicity. Heparin is an anticoagulant medication, and if an overdose occurs or if there is excessive bleeding due to Heparin use, protamine, a positively charged molecule, can neutralize the anticoagulant effects of Heparin by forming a complex with it. This binding prevents Heparin from further inhibiting coagulation factors and helps in reversing its effects.

5. A client has a new prescription for Warfarin for atrial fibrillation. Which of the following findings should the nurse report to the provider immediately?

• A. INR of 4.0
• B. Potassium level of 4.5 mEq/L
• C. Sodium level of 140 mEq/L
• D. Creatinine level of 1.0 mg/dL

Correct answer: A

Rationale: An INR of 4.0 is above the therapeutic range for a client on Warfarin, indicating an increased risk of bleeding. This finding requires immediate reporting to the provider for appropriate intervention to prevent complications associated with excessive anticoagulation. Potassium, sodium, and creatinine levels are within normal ranges and are not directly related to the risk of bleeding in a client on Warfarin therapy.

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