Final answer:
Warfarin, also known as Coumadin, is given to patients who are currently experiencing thromboembolisms to prevent excessive blood clotting. By preventing clotting, warfarin helps to maintain blood flow and prevent complications such as heart attacks and strokes.
Step-by-step explanation:
Warfarin, also known as Coumadin, is given to patients who are currently experiencing thromboembolisms to prevent excessive blood clotting.
Thromboembolisms occur when a blood clot, known as a thrombus, forms in a blood vessel and travels to another part of the body, causing blockages.
Warfarin works by inhibiting the synthesis of vitamin K-dependent clotting factors, thereby preventing the formation of new blood clots and reducing the risk of additional thromboembolisms.
By preventing clotting, warfarin helps to maintain blood flow and prevent complications such as heart attacks and strokes.