A patient is being discharged on long-term oral anticoagulant ...

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A patient is being discharged on long-term oral anticoagulant therapy for arterial thrombus formation in the lower extremity. What should be included in this patient's discharge instructions?
 
  1. Slight bleeding from the nose is expected.
  2. Contact the physician's office for follow-up laboratory studies.
  3. Pain in the limb is a sign of healing.
  4. Take two doses of the prescribed anticoagulant if a dose is missed one day.

Question 2

The nurse suspects that a patient is experiencing the effects of peripheral atherosclerosis. What did the nurse most likely assess in this patient?
 
  1. rubor with extremity elevation
  2. normal hair distribution bilaterally over lower extremities
  3. peripheral pulses present bilaterally
  4. complaints of leg pain upon rest

[ally]

Answer to Question 1

Correct Answer: 2
When preparing the patient and family for home or community-based care related to an acute arterial occlusion, the patient should be instructed to follow-up with laboratory testing and appointments. Nasal bleeding is not expected. Pain in the limb could indicate another clot has formed. Anticoagulant medications should never be doubled even in the case of a missed dose. The patient would be encouraged to notify the physician if a dose is missed.

Answer to Question 2

Correct Answer: 4
Manifestations of peripheral atherosclerosis include intermittent claudication; pain at rest; paresthesias; diminished or absent peripheral pulses; pallor with extremity elevation; rubor with extremities in dependent position; thin, shiny, hairless skin; thickened toenails; and areas of skin discoloration or skin breakdown.

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TYSM

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Excellent