A nurse is caring for a client who is diagnosed with a deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and is receiving heparin. The client asks the nurse how long it will take for the heparin to dissolve the clot, which of the following responses should the nurse give?
"Depending on the level of your PT/INR, the clot will begin to dissolve."
"After the first dose, the clot will begin to dissolve."
"It usually takes heparin at least 2 to 3 days to reach a therapeutic blood level."
"Heparin does not dissolve clots. It stops new clots from forming."
The Correct Answer is D
A. "Depending on the level of your PT/INR, the clot will begin to dissolve.": This response is misleading, as heparin's effect is not primarily monitored by PT/INR; rather, heparin is monitored by activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT). Moreover, heparin does not directly dissolve clots; it prevents further clot formation.
B. "After the first dose, the clot will begin to dissolve.": This statement inaccurately suggests that heparin has an immediate effect on dissolving existing clots. While heparin acts quickly to inhibit further clotting, it does not lead to the dissolution of clots after the first dose.
C. "It usually takes heparin at least 2 to 3 days to reach a therapeutic blood level.": This is not accurate for heparin, which has an immediate effect on coagulation. While the therapeutic effects can be optimized over several days, heparin begins to work right away to prevent further clotting.
D. "Heparin does not dissolve clots. It stops new clots from forming.": This response accurately describes the mechanism of action of heparin. Heparin prevents the extension of existing clots and the formation of new clots, but it does not actively dissolve clots. This clarification is essential for the client’s understanding of their treatment and expectations regarding DVT management.
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View Related questions
Correct Answer is ["A","C","D"]
Explanation
A) Masking of hypoglycemia: Propranolol can mask the symptoms of hypoglycemia, such as tachycardia, which is important for clients with diabetes to be aware of. This means that while they may have low blood sugar, they might not experience the typical warning signs due to the medication's effects on the autonomic nervous system.
B) Tachycardia: Propranolol is a beta-blocker that is used to reduce heart rate and blood pressure. Therefore, tachycardia is not a side effect associated with this medication; in fact, it generally works to prevent this condition.
C) Bradycardia: Bradycardia, or a slow heart rate, is a common side effect of propranolol due to its action on beta-adrenergic receptors. Clients should be educated about monitoring their heart rate and reporting any significant drops.
D) Orthostatic Hypotension: This is a potential side effect of propranolol, especially when starting the medication or increasing the dose. Clients should be advised to rise slowly from sitting or lying positions to minimize the risk of dizziness or fainting.
E) Hypertension: Propranolol is prescribed to manage hypertension, so it should not be expected as a side effect. In fact, it is intended to lower blood pressure, and clients should be educated that they should not experience increased hypertension while taking this medication.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A) Platelet counts: Monitoring platelet counts is not necessary with atorvastatin therapy. While certain medications may affect platelet levels, atorvastatin primarily targets lipid levels and does not have a significant impact on platelet function.
B) Lung function test: Lung function tests are not relevant for atorvastatin use. These tests are typically utilized for assessing respiratory conditions and are not part of the routine monitoring for cholesterol-lowering medications.
C) Liver function test: Atorvastatin can affect liver function, so it is essential to monitor liver
enzymes (such as AST and ALT) regularly. Routine liver function tests help identify any potential hepatotoxicity early, allowing for timely intervention if liver function declines.
D) Bun and creatinine levels: While monitoring renal function can be important in some contexts, it is not a routine requirement specifically for atorvastatin. However, it may be necessary in certain patient populations or if there are concerns about kidney function, but liver function tests are the primary focus with this medication.