Author Question: The client prescribed heparin therapy asks how the blood thinner works. Which response by the nurse ... (Read 91 times)

nummyann · **on:** Jul 23, 2018

The client prescribed heparin therapy asks how the blood thinner works. Which response by the nurse is the most appropriate?

1. Heparin dissolves the clot.
2. Heparin makes the blood less viscous.
3. Heparin decreases the number of platelets so that blood clots more slowly.
4. Heparin prevents clots from forming.

Question 2

The baseline international normalized ratio (INR) of a client started on warfarin (Coumadin) for atrial fibrillation was 1.2. The nurse notes that the INR value is 2.5 prior to administration of the next dose of medication.

Which action by the nurse is the most appropriate?
1. Administer the antidote and observe for bleeding.
2. Notify the health care provider so that the dose can be increased.
3. Administer the medication as ordered.
4. Hold medication and contact the health care provider.

jharrington11 · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 23, 2018

Answer to Question 1

Correct Answer: 4
Rationale 1: Anticoagulants do not dissolve clots.
Rationale 2: Anticoagulants do not change the viscosity of the blood.
Rationale 3: Anticoagulants do not decrease the number of platelets.
Rationale 4: Heparin inhibits the clotting cascade, preventing clots from forming.
Global Rationale: Heparin inhibits the clotting cascade, preventing clots from forming. Anticoagulants do not dissolve clots, change the viscosity of the blood, or decrease the number of platelets.

Answer to Question 2

Correct Answer: 3
Rationale 1: The INR is in the therapeutic range.
Rationale 2: The INR is in the therapeutic range, and the warfarin does not need to be increased.
Rationale 3: INR values averaging 2.5 are considered therapeutic for most indications.
Rationale 4: The INR is in the therapeutic range.
Global Rationale: INR values averaging 2.5 are considered therapeutic for most indications. The INR is in the therapeutic range, and the warfarin does not need to be increased.