The nurse notes in the patient™s medication orders that the patient will be starting anticoagulant therapy. What is the primary goal of anticoagulant therapy?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The primary goal of anticoagulant therapy is to prevent the formation of blood clots or thrombus. Anticoagulants work by inhibiting the coagulation cascade, which ultimately prevents the blood from clotting too easily. By preventing the formation of clots, anticoagulant therapy helps reduce the risk of conditions such as deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, stroke, and heart attack, which are all associated with blood clot formation. Anticoagulant therapy does not stabilize or dissolve existing clots but rather focuses on preventing new clots from forming. Dilating the vessel around a clot is not the primary purpose of anticoagulant therapy.

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.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Valproate belongs to the category class of anticonvulsants, which means it is primarily used to treat seizures and epilepsy. Additionally, valproate also has properties that make it effective in the treatment of vascular headaches, such as migraines. It is not an anticoagulant, antianxiety medication like benzodiazepines, or a mood stabilizer.