Question

A home care nurse visits a client diagnosed with atrial fibrillation who is ordered warfarin. The nurse teaches the client about warfarin therapy. Which statement by the client indicates the need for further teaching?

A) "I'll watch my gums for bleeding when I brush my teeth."
B) "I'll use an electric razor to shave."
C) "I'll eat four servings of fresh, dark green vegetables every day."
D) "I'll report unexplained or severe bruising to my doctor right away."

Answer 1

Warfarin is a blood thinner that is used to prevent blood clots from forming or growing larger in your blood and blood vessels. It is used to treat or prevent blood clots in veins or arteries, which can reduce the risk of stroke, heart attack, or other serious conditions1

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse should teach the client about the importance of taking warfarin exactly as prescribed by the doctor and not to stop taking it without consulting the doctor first. The client should also be taught about the signs of bleeding such as easy bruising, nosebleeds, bleeding gums, coughing up blood, blood in urine or stool and should be advised to report these symptoms immediately to the doctor2.

The client should also be taught about the side effects of warfarin therapy such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and allergic reactions. Warfarin may also cause calcium build-up in the arteries and narrowing of the aortic valve3.

I hope this helps. Let me know if you have any other questions.