Heparin is ordered for a patient with a non–ST-segment-elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI). What is the purpose of the heparin?
a. Heparin enhances platelet aggregation.
b. Heparin decreases coronary artery plaque size.
c. Heparin prevents the development of new clots in the coronary arteries.
d. Heparin dissolves clots that are blocking blood flow in the coronary arteries.
ANS: C
Heparin helps prevent the conversion of fibrinogen to fibrin and decreases coronary artery thrombosis. It does not change coronary artery plaque, dissolve already formed clots, or enhance platelet aggregation.
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An older patient has a Braden Scale pressure ulcer risk score of 18. What does this score mean to the nurse?
1. The patient is at a low risk for the development of a pressure ulcer. 2. This patient is at a high risk for the development of a pressure ulcer. 3. The score is inconclusive and the assessment repeated within 3 days. 4. This score is inconclusive and shows no significant risk pressure ulcer development.
Which of the following are risk factors for thyroid cancer? Select all that apply
a. Diet high in iron b. Men age 30–40 c. Women age 55–65 d. Exposure to nuclear weapons e. Family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma f. Exposure to nuclear power plant accidents
The nurse is caring for a patient who is receiving intravenous theophylline. The patient complains of headache and nausea. The nurse will contact the provider to
a. change the medication to an oral theophylline. b. obtain an order for a serum theophylline level. c. request an order for an analgesic medication. d. suggest an alternative methylxanthine medication.
A patient is being discharged after an MI and will be undergoing rehabilitation for 2 weeks
The nurse is planning a teaching session on long-term pharmacologic agents and should include discussion of which of the following drugs in the teaching session? (Select all that apply.) a. Beta blockers b. Low-dose vitamin E daily c. Low-dose aspirin (81 to 162 mg/day) d. ACE inhibitors e. Moderate doses of acetaminophen (650 mg/day)