A client received tissue plasminogen activator (t-PA) after a ...

[daltonest1984]

A client received tissue plasminogen activator (t-PA) after a myocardial infarction and now is on an intravenous infusion of heparin. The client's spouse asks why the client needs this medication. What response by the nurse is best?
 
  a. The t-PA didn't dissolve the entire coronary clot.
  b. The heparin keeps that artery from getting blocked again.
  c. Heparin keeps the blood as thin as possible for a longer time.
  d. The heparin prevents a stroke from occurring as the t-PA wears off.

Question 2

A client is in the hospital after suffering a myocardial infarction and has bathroom privileges. The nurse assists the client to the bathroom and notes the client's O2 saturation to be 95, pulse 88 beats/min, and respiratory rate 16 breaths/min after
 
  returning to bed. What action by the nurse is best?
 
  a.
  Administer oxygen at 2 L/min.
  b.
  Allow continued bathroom privileges.
  c.
  Obtain a bedside commode.
  d.
  Suggest the client use a bedpan.

[dudman123]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: B
After the original intracoronary clot has dissolved, large amounts of thrombin are released into the bloodstream, increasing the chance of the vessel reoccluding. The other statements are not accurate. Heparin is not a blood thinner, although laypeople may refer to it as such.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: B
This client's physiologic parameters did not exceed normal during and after activity, so it is safe for the client to continue using the bathroom. There is no indication that the client needs oxygen, a commode, or a bedpan.