The nurse is reviewing the laboratory results for a client who arrives at the health care clinic for follow-up assessment after being diagnosed with atrial fibrillation. The international normalized ratio (INR) is analyzed because the client has been taking warfarin sodium since discharge from the hospital. The nurse determines that the INR range is at an appropriate level if what value is noted on the laboratory report?
1. 0.6
2. 0.75
3. 1.0
4. 2.3
Answer: 4. 2.3
Explanation: The recommended INR range for warfarin sodium therapy for atrial fibrillation is 2.0 to 3.0 (2.0 to 3.0). Subtherapeutic INRs increase the client's risk for thrombus formation. The normal range for INR is 0.81 to 1.2 (0.81 to 1.2), so option 4 is therapeutic for this client.
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