Question

The nurse reinforces teaching a client on prescribed dabigatran for chronic atrial fibrillation. Which statement by the client indicates a need for further teaching? 1. "I will call my health care provider if I notice red urine or blood in my stool." 2. "I will not stop taking dabigatran even if I get a stomachache." 3. "I will place capsules in my pill box so I will not forget to take a dose." 4. "I will swallow the capsule whole with a full glass of water."

Answer 1

3. I will place capsules in my pill box so I will not forget to take a dose.

Explanation - Dabigatran is a drug that has anticoagulant property and helps in dissolving blood clots thereby reducing the risk of cardiac stroke if the person is suffering from chronic atrial fibrillation.

In this case, the nurse should ensure to create awareness to the client about taking precautions of bleeding such as using a toothbrush that has soft-bristle, using an electric razor to shave. Dabigatran capsules are supposed to be kept in their authentic box or blister pack until the time of use to prevent its contamination by the moisture.