A client who experienced a pulmonary embolus is receiving heparin therapy. The client will now also start receiving sodium warfarin (Coumadin). When the client asks the nurse why both medications are being given, the best response by the nurse is
A) "It takes several days for the warfarin to become therapeutic."
B) "Most clients go home on both drugs for maximal treatment."
C) "The heparin is not working to dissolve the blood clot, so we are adding warfarin."
D) "You are right to ask. You are at increased risk of bleeding with both drugs."

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Administration of sodium warfarin is begun about 3 to 5 days before heparin is stopped to provide a transition to oral anticoagulants. Warfarin has a long half-life and if the heparin was stopped too early, the client would not be protected. It is important to note that heparin does not dissolve the blood clot.

A Client Who Experienced a Pulmonary Embolus Is Receiving Heparin