Author Question: A patient had a stroke 3 weeks ago and is taking warfarin (Coumadin). When visiting the laboratory ... (Read 53 times)

jc611 · **on:** Jul 19, 2018

A patient had a stroke 3 weeks ago and is taking warfarin (Coumadin). When visiting the laboratory for a prothrombin time, the patient reports taking gingko for memory enhancement. Which nursing diagnosis applies?

a. Impaired memory related to neurological changes
b. Deficient knowledge related to potentially harmful drug interactions
c. Ineffective denial related to consequences of mismanagement of therapeutic regime
d. Effective management of the therapeutic regime related to augmentation of anti-coagulant therapy

Question 2

Select the best desired outcome for a patient who uses valerian. The patient will report:

a. stress level is lower.
b. undisturbed sleep throughout the night.
c. increased interest in recreational activities.
d. early morning waking without an alarm clock.

medine · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 19, 2018

Answer to Question 1

ANS: B
Gingko is purported to improve memory, concentration, and mood in patients with dementia. Because it antagonizes platelet-activating factor, it should not be taken by patients who are receiving anticoagulants or who have other potential bleeding problems. Thus, deficient knowledge is an appropriate nursing diagnosis.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: B
Valerian decreases sleep latency, nocturnal waking, and leads to a subjective sense of good sleep. Sleeping through the night is the best indicator the herb was effective. Although the patient's stress level may be lowered by use of valerian, the problem is insomnia; outcomes should relate to the problem. Early morning waking is indicative of depression or anxiety.