A patient recovering from replacement of a mitral valve with a mechanical valve asks how long warfarin (Coumadin) needs to be taken. What is the nurse's best response?
A. "You will be told when to stop, usually when your mechanical prosthetic valve is healed and there is a minimal risk of clots."
B. "You will be on it for the rest of your life because you have a mechanical valve."
C. "That will depend on your surgeon. Ask her when you go to your office visit."
D. "You will be on it for the rest of your life because you have a biologic tissue valve."
Answer: B
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Just after being admitted to the emergency department for symptoms of influenza, the patient loses consciousness. His wife reports that he is diabetic but has not taken his oral medications for a "couple of days." Which nursing interventions are indicated?
1. Check the patient's blood glucose using a fingerstick monitor. 2. Place 1.5 tubes of 40% glucose gel under the patient's tongue. 3. Obtain intravenous access. 4. Administer 50% dextrose subcutaneously. 5. Administer regular insulin subcutaneously.
Which type of licensure protects the title "nurse" as well as professional actions associated with nursing?
1. Mandatory 2. Permissive 3. Institutional 4. Transitional
Which of the following assessment findings in a postpartum client would be most alarming?
A) Leg pain on ambulation with mild ankle edema B) Calf pain with dorsiflexion of the foot. C) Perineal pain with swelling along the episiotomy D) Sharp stabbing chest pain with shortness of breath
The GCS is an invalid measure for the patient with
a. hemiplegia. b. Parkinson disease. c. mental retardation. d. intoxication.