Author Question: Why is warfarin (Coumadin) avoided during pregnancy? a. Warfarin can induce premature closure of ... (Read 139 times)

LCritchfi · **on:** Jul 24, 2018

Why is warfarin (Coumadin) avoided during pregnancy?

a. Warfarin can induce premature closure of the foramen ovale in the fetus.
b. The fetal and newborn liver cannot metabolize warfarin and anemia results.
c. The fetus and newborn are more likely to have allergic reactions to warfarin.
d. Warfarin crosses the placenta and causes birth defects or hemorrhage in the fetus.

Question 2

A patient prescribed subcutaneous heparin tells you that her menstrual bleeding is heavier than usual. What is your best response?

a. I will hold the drug and notify your prescriber.
b. This is a fairly common and expected side effect of the drug.
c. Heavy bleeding is a concern because you might become anemic.
d. I will have to give you a shot of protamine sulfate to reverse the drug's action.