warfarin Flashcards
1
Q
Generic name/
Trade name:
A
warfarin/coumadin
2
Q
Classification:
A
anticoagulants/coumarins
3
Q
Usual dosage range for route:
A
2–5 mg/day PO
4
Q
Dosage/route/frequency ordered:
A
5 mg PO q PM
5
Q
Why is this client receiving this medication?
A
Prevention of thromboembolic events.
6
Q
How does this medication work?
A
- Interferes with hepatic synthesis of vitamin K-dependent clotting factors.
- Prevention of thromboembolic events.
7
Q
What side effects are most likely to occur secondary to this medication?
A
BLEEDING, fever, dermal necrosis, nausea
8
Q
What actions do I as a nurse need to take specific to this medication?
(Including adverse reactions I need to be aware of)
A
- Assess for signs of bleeding and hemorrhage.
- Assess for evidence of additional or increased thrombosis.
- Monitor PT, INR and other clotting factors frequently during therapy.
- Monitor CBC CBC before and periodically throughout therapy.
- Before administering, evaluate recent INR or PT results and have second practitioner independently check original order
9
Q
What do I as a nurse need to teach the client about this medication?
A
- report any symptoms of unusual bleeding or bruising.
- not to drink alcohol, or use aspirin or other NSAIDs
- Review foods high in vitamin K, limited intake of these foods, as vitamin K is the antidote for warfarin,
- avoid cranberry juice or products during therapy.
10
Q
What other medications is the client taking that may interact with/alter the action of this medication?
A
heparin: ↑ the risk of bleeding
