A patient being treated with warfarin (Coumadin) experiences an intracerebral hemorrhage. What should be considered to aid in the care of this patient?
1. Prepare the patient for surgery.
2. Prepare the patient for a ventriculostomy.
3. Prepare to administer vitamin K.
4. Prepare to administer protamine sulfate.
3
Rationale 1: Surgery is indicated only after the cause of the bleed has been identified. This management will be based on the location and type of bleed.
Rationale 2: A ventriculostomy is not used as a therapy in the management of the intracerebral hematoma. This therapy is limited and is only indicated if it would be beneficial in reducing intracranial pressure by controlling cerebrospinal fluid.
Rationale 3: Since the patient has been receiving the anticoagulant warfarin (Coumadin), the appropriate drug is the administration of vitamin K to reverse the effects of this medication.
Rationale 4: Protamine sulfate is the medication used to reverse heparin-associated ICH. The dose is dependent on the time since the cessation of heparin.
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