An older client is prescribed warfarin. What will the nurse include when teaching the client about this medication?
1. Alcohol intake must be done on a regular basis, if at all.
2. Do not take any medications with aspirin or acetaminophen.
3. Dietary supplements can be continued when taking this medication.
4. Ensure that you have safety bars and non-skid carpeting in your home.
4. Ensure that you have safety bars and non-skid carpeting in your home.
Explanation: 1. Alcohol will interfere with warfarin and cause the INR to either increase with alcohol binging or be reduced with moderate alcohol intake. Alcohol should be avoided while on warfarin therapy. Also, alcohol increases the risk for falls, a risk for hemorrhage in the client on warfarin.
2. Aspirin will interact with warfarin and cause the INR to be prolonged. These two medications are combined with caution when necessary. Acetaminophen does not have a known interaction.
3. Warfarin interacts with over-the-counter herbs, supplements, and medications and may cause the INR to be either prolonged or reduced.
4. Clients with demonstrated fall risk must not be prescribed warfarin due to risk of brain hemorrhage. Because hepatic clearance is reduced in this client, the dose is begun slowly and titrated as needed. Additionally, the healthcare provider will continue to assess the client's fall risk during this time.
You might also like to view...
You are caring for an Ethiopean refugee who has been diagnosed with mitral valve regurgitation. You know that in developing countries the most common cause of mitral valve regurgitation is what?
A) A decrease in gamma globulins B) An insect bite C) Rheumatic heart disease and its sequelae D) Sepsis and its sequelae
The wife of a critically ill patient asks the nurse for help in making end-of-life care decisions for her husband. What action by the nurse is indicated?
1. Encourage the wife to recall any discussions with her husband about his wishes. 2. Encourage the wife to discontinue aggressive medical treatments as soon as possible. 3. Tell the wife what most other families have done in similar situations in the past. 4. Refer the wife to social services for information about end of life.
What is the basic human right that is violated when a nurse researcher allows an unauthorized person access to study data containing information about subject identity and responses?
a. Justice b. Beneficence c. Confidentiality d. Respect for persons
Which intervention should the nurse use to prevent medication errors?
1. Clarify illegible prescriptions or handwriting. 2. Document medication before administering it. 3. Prepare all assigned clients' medications at once. 4. Read medication labels two times when preparing.