Question

Which of these medication orders for a patient with a pulmonary embolism is more important to clarify with the prescribing physician before administration?

a) Warfarin (Coumadin) 1.0 mg by mouth (PO)

b) Morphine sulfate 2 to 4 mg IV

c) Cephalexin (Keflex) 250 mg PO

d) Heparin infusion at 900 units/hr

Answer 1

The most important medication to clarify with a doctor for a pulmonary embolism patient is Warfarin (Coumadin) 1.0 mg PO, due to its dosage sensitivity and pharmacogenomics implications.

Step-by-step explanation:

The medication order to clarify with the prescribing physician before administration for a patient with a pulmonary embolism is Warfarin (Coumadin) 1.0 mg by mouth (PO). Warfarin is an anticoagulant medication used to prevent blood clots, and its dose needs to be carefully managed due to its narrow therapeutic window and potential for interactions with other drugs or alterations by patient's liver function. Additionally, pharmacogenomics can play a significant role in determining the appropriate dosage of Warfarin by analyzing a patient's genetic profile to predict their response to the drug, thereby reducing the risk of overdose or therapeutic failure. Such genetic testing can help tailor the dose to ensure efficacy and minimize adverse effects. Hence, before administering Warfarin, it is crucial to ensure that the prescribed dose aligns with the patient's pharmacogenomic profile and their current clinical condition.