Question

A patient has a bottle of Coumadin 5 mg tablets at home. After his most recent international normalized ratio (INR), the doctor calls and tells him to take 7.5 mg/day. How many tablets should the patient take?

Answer 1

The patient is prescribed 7.5 mg of Coumadin and has 5 mg tablets; therefore, the patient should take one and a half tablets each day.

Step-by-step explanation:

The prescribed dosage for the patient is 7.5 mg of Coumadin daily. Given that the available tablets are in 5 mg increments, the patient is advised to take one and a half tablets each day to meet the prescribed dose. This entails consuming one whole 5 mg tablet and half of another, equating to a total of 7.5 mg. Ensuring the patient comprehends the proper method for safely splitting the tablet is crucial. In the event of uncertainty or difficulty in tablet division, consulting with a healthcare provider is strongly recommended.

Patients need to be educated on the accurate technique for splitting the tablet, emphasizing precision to achieve the prescribed dose and maintain medication efficacy. Emphasis should be placed on the importance of adhering to the prescribed dosage and seeking guidance if any challenges arise in the administration process. Additionally, patients should be informed about potential risks associated with improper tablet splitting and the significance of consulting with healthcare professionals to address any concerns or questions. This proactive approach aims to promote patient safety and optimize the therapeutic benefits of the prescribed Coumadin regimen.

Answer 2

The patient is prescribed 7.5 mg of Coumadin and has 5 mg tablets; therefore, the patient should take one and a half tablets each day.

Step-by-step explanation:

The prescribed dosage for the patient is 7.5 mg of Coumadin daily. Given that the available tablets are in 5 mg increments, the patient is advised to take one and a half tablets each day to meet the prescribed dose. This entails consuming one whole 5 mg tablet and half of another, equating to a total of 7.5 mg. Ensuring the patient comprehends the proper method for safely splitting the tablet is crucial. In the event of uncertainty or difficulty in tablet division, consulting with a healthcare provider is strongly recommended.

Patients need to be educated on the accurate technique for splitting the tablet, emphasizing precision to achieve the prescribed dose and maintain medication efficacy. Emphasis should be placed on the importance of adhering to the prescribed dosage and seeking guidance if any challenges arise in the administration process. Additionally, patients should be informed about potential risks associated with improper tablet splitting and the significance of consulting with healthcare professionals to address any concerns or questions. This proactive approach aims to promote patient safety and optimize the therapeutic benefits of the prescribed Coumadin regimen.