A patient wants to take garlic tablets to improve his cholesterol levels. Which condition would be a contraindication?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Scheduled surgery would be a contraindication for taking garlic tablets because garlic has blood-thinning properties that could potentially increase the risk of bleeding during or after surgery. This can interfere with the blood's ability to clot properly, leading to excessive bleeding and other complications during the surgical procedure. It is important to inform healthcare providers about all supplements being taken, including garlic tablets, before undergoing any surgery to ensure patient safety.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In the scenario described where the patient has accidentally taken too much warfarin (Coumadin) and is experiencing bleeding, the nurse can anticipate administering Vitamin K. Warfarin is an anticoagulant medication that works by inhibiting vitamin K-dependent clotting factors in the liver. By administering Vitamin K, it helps reverse the anticoagulant effect of warfarin by supplying the needed vitamin K for the production of clotting factors. This aids in the clotting process and helps to stop the bleeding that may occur due to excess warfarin in the system. Other medications listed (such as Protamine sulfate, Alteplase, Reteplase) are not specific antidotes for warfarin overdose-related bleeding but are used for different therapeutic purposes.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Warfarin (Coumadin) is an anticoagulant that works by inhibiting vitamin K-dependent clotting factors. In cases of warfarin overdose or excessive anticoagulation leading to bleeding events, the antidote is vitamin K. Vitamin K helps to reverse the effects of warfarin by promoting the production of clotting factors that are inhibited by warfarin. Administering vitamin K can help normalize the patient's coagulation parameters and stop bleeding in cases of warfarin over-anticoagulation.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Protamine is the antidote for Heparin. Heparin is an anticoagulant medication that works by increasing the activity of antithrombin III, leading to the inhibition of clotting factors. In cases of excessive bleeding or overdose with Heparin, protamine can be administered to neutralize its anticoagulant effects. Protamine works by binding to heparin to form a stable complex, thereby reversing the anticoagulant activity of Heparin. It is important for healthcare providers to be familiar with the antidotes for various medications to manage potential complications effectively.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Lactic acidosis is an adverse effect specific to the biguanide diabetic drug metformin. It is a rare but serious complication associated with the use of metformin. Lactic acidosis occurs when there is a buildup of lactate in the body, leading to a decrease in pH levels. This condition can be life-threatening and requires immediate medical attention. Symptoms of lactic acidosis include rapid breathing, muscle pain or weakness, abdominal pain, dizziness, and irregular heartbeat. It is important for individuals taking metformin to be aware of the signs and symptoms of lactic acidosis and seek medical help if they experience them.