Final answer:
Enoxaparin [Lovenox] is used to prevent blood clots and is administered by injection. It has a longer duration of action compared to other anticoagulants and carries some risk of bleeding.
Step-by-step explanation:
The nurse knows that enoxaparin [Lovenox] is a medication used to prevent blood clots. It is a type of anticoagulant that works by inhibiting the formation of blood clots. Enoxaparin is commonly used for the prevention and treatment of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE), as well as for the prevention of blood clotting in patients undergoing certain surgeries.
Enoxaparin is given by injection under the skin (subcutaneously) and it is usually administered in specific doses based on the patient's weight and medical condition. It has a longer duration of action compared to other anticoagulants like heparin, allowing for once or twice daily dosing instead of continuous intravenous infusion.
It's important to note that enoxaparin can increase the risk of bleeding, so proper monitoring and dose adjustment are necessary in patients with renal or hepatic impairment. Additionally, patients taking enoxaparin should be cautious about potential drug interactions and report any unusual bleeding or bruising to their healthcare provider.