Question

A patient is receiving an IV infusion of heparin and was started on warfarin therapy the night before. Which statement is most correct? The patient is receiving a double dose of anticoagulants. The heparin therapy was ineffective, so the warfarin was started. The heparin provides anticoagulation until therapeutic levels of warfarin are reached. The heparin and warfarin work together synergistically to provide anticoagulation.

Answer 1

The statement that is most correct is: "The heparin provides anticoagulation until therapeutic levels of warfarin are reached." Heparin is used initially because it provides immediate anticoagulation until warfarin takes effect, which typically requires a few days to reach therapeutic levels. Once the warfarin reaches the desired therapeutic level, the heparin is usually discontinued.