ATI RN
Hematology drugs Questions
Question 1 of 4
Prevention of strokes, myocardial infarctions, and reinfarction can be accomplished with
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A) low-dose aspirin (81 mg) for the prevention of strokes, myocardial infarctions, and reinfarction. Aspirin is a commonly used antiplatelet medication that helps prevent blood clot formation by inhibiting platelet aggregation. This property makes it effective in reducing the risk of clot-related events such as strokes and heart attacks. The recommended low dose of 81 mg is often used for cardiovascular protection because it provides the benefits of antiplatelet effects while minimizing the risk of side effects like gastrointestinal bleeding. Option B) moderate-dose psilocybin (10 mg) is incorrect because psilocybin is a hallucinogenic compound found in certain mushrooms and has no proven role in preventing strokes or heart attacks. Option C) low-dose Rifampin (247 mg) is also incorrect as Rifampin is an antibiotic used primarily in the treatment of infections like tuberculosis, not for cardiovascular prevention. Option D) moderate-dose capsaicin (120 mg) is incorrect as capsaicin is a compound found in chili peppers and is not indicated for cardiovascular protection. In an educational context, understanding the appropriate use of medications for specific conditions is crucial for healthcare professionals, especially in fields like hematology where drug therapy plays a significant role in managing and preventing various conditions. Knowing the mechanisms of action and indications of commonly used medications like aspirin is fundamental for providing safe and effective patient care.
Question 2 of 4
A patient has been instructed to take one enteric-coated low-dose aspirin a day as part of therapy to prevent strokes. The nurse will provide which instruction when providing patient teaching about this medication?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C) Take the medication with 6 to 8 ounces of water and with food. This instruction is crucial for the patient's safety and efficacy of the medication. Taking enteric-coated low-dose aspirin with food and water helps protect the stomach lining, reducing the risk of gastrointestinal irritation and bleeding. Option A is incorrect because low-dose aspirin therapy can indeed lead to problems with bleeding, especially if not taken correctly. Option B is incorrect because aspirin should not be taken on an empty stomach due to its potential to cause gastric irritation. Option D is wrong as crushing coated tablets can interfere with the intended delayed-release properties of the enteric coating, affecting the medication's effectiveness. In an educational context, it is vital for healthcare professionals to emphasize the importance of proper administration of medications to patients. Understanding the specific instructions for each medication, like taking enteric-coated aspirin with food and water, can significantly impact treatment outcomes and patient safety. Patient education plays a key role in ensuring medication adherence and minimizing potential adverse effects.
Question 3 of 4
The nurse notes in the patient's medication order that the patient will be starting anticoagulant therapy. What is the primary goal of anticoagulant therapy?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The primary goal of anticoagulant therapy is to prevent thrombus formation. Anticoagulants work by inhibiting the clotting cascade, thereby reducing the blood's ability to form clots. This is crucial in patients at risk for conditions such as deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, and stroke. Option A, dissolving an existing thrombus, is incorrect because anticoagulants do not actively dissolve clots; they prevent new ones from forming. Option B, stabilizing an existing thrombus, is also incorrect as anticoagulants do not have a direct effect on stabilizing existing clots. Option C, dilating the vessel around a clot, is not the primary goal of anticoagulant therapy as the focus is on preventing clot formation rather than dilating vessels. Understanding the primary goal of anticoagulant therapy is crucial for nurses to ensure safe and effective patient care. Educating patients on the purpose of their medications can also improve adherence and promote better outcomes. Nurses must also monitor patients closely for signs of bleeding, as anticoagulants can increase the risk of hemorrhage.
Question 4 of 4
A patient has been prescribed warfarin (Coumadin) in addition to a heparin infusion. The patient asks the nurse why he has to be on two medications. The nurse's response is based on which rationale?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A) Heparin is used to start anticoagulation so as to allow time for the blood levels of warfarin to reach adequate levels. This rationale is based on the pharmacokinetics of warfarin, which has a delayed onset of action. Warfarin works by inhibiting the synthesis of vitamin K-dependent clotting factors in the liver, a process that takes time to affect the coagulation cascade. Heparin, on the other hand, acts more rapidly by potentiating antithrombin III and inhibiting factors Xa and IIa. Using heparin initially allows for immediate anticoagulation while waiting for warfarin to achieve therapeutic levels. This approach prevents the risk of thrombosis during the lag time before warfarin becomes fully effective. Option B is incorrect because it oversimplifies the process by stating that oral anticoagulants are used to reach an adequate level without addressing the necessity of immediate anticoagulation in some situations. Educationally, understanding the rationale behind using both heparin and warfarin provides insights into the management of anticoagulation therapy and highlights the importance of timing and mechanism of action in treating thrombotic disorders effectively. This knowledge is crucial for nurses and healthcare providers involved in caring for patients on anticoagulant therapy.