Question

The nurse is preparing discharge teaching for a patient who has a history of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT). The client is prescribed warfarin (Coumadin). What should the nurse include in the discharge teaching?

Select one:
a. "Avoid foods that are high in potassium such as apricots, citrus fruits, and bananas since they can interfere with the medication's effectiveness."
b. "Use a soft bristled toothbrush and brush at least twice a day to prevent gingival hyperplasia."
c. "Watch for the development of thrush which would appear as white patches and sores in your mouth and throat. Call your health care provider if this occurs."
d. "Watch your stools for signs of bleeding such as dark, tarry stools and report this immediately to your health care provider."

Answer 1

The nurse should instruct the patient on warfarin to watch for signs of bleeding, such as dark, tarry stools, and to report this to their healthcare provider as it indicates a potential side effect of the medication.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse should include in the discharge teaching for a patient with a history of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) who is prescribed warfarin (Coumadin) that they should monitor for signs of bleeding, such as dark, tarry stools. This response can be associated with selection 'd' from the options provided. Warfarin is an anticoagulant that prevents the formation of harmful blood clots that can lead to complications such as stroke or heart attack. However, the risk of bleeding is a potential side effect of warfarin therapy. Patients should be instructed to keep an eye out for any signs of unusual bleeding and to report these to their healthcare provider promptly. This includes paying attention to the appearance of their stools, as dark and tarry stools can be an indication of gastrointestinal bleeding, which requires immediate medical attention.