Question

The nurse is planning care for a patient receiving enoxaparin (Lovenox). Which interventions should be included? Select all that apply.

1. Teach the patient or family to give subcutaneous injections at home.
2. Monitor for development of deep vein thrombosis.
3. Monitor multiple lab tests.
4. Teach the patient signs of excessive bleeding.
5. Schedule administration times right before breakfast and the evening meal.

Answer 1

For a patient on enoxaparin (Lovenox), the nurse should teach the patient or their family how to administer subcutaneous injections, monitor for signs of deep vein thrombosis and excessive bleeding, and ensure doses are administered consistently, though not necessarily before meals.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse planning care for a patient receiving enoxaparin (Lovenox) should include the following interventions:

• Teach the patient or family to give subcutaneous injections at home - It is important for patients or their family members to know how to administer the medication if they are to continue treatment outside a healthcare setting.
• Monitor for development of deep vein thrombosis - As enoxaparin is used to prevent blood clots, observing for signs of clot formation is crucial.
• Teach the patient signs of excessive bleeding - Patients should be educated on the signs of hemorrhage, such as unusual bruising or prolonged bleeding, which are side effects of anticoagulants.
• Scheduled administration times do not necessarily need to be right before meals unless specifically advised by a healthcare provider. However, consistency in the timing of doses is important.

Monitoring multiple lab tests may not be necessary with enoxaparin as it does not require routine blood monitoring like warfarin (Coumadin).