The nurse is assessing the lab work of a client with a pulmonary embolism. The client's INR is 5.8. The most appropriate action by the nurse is to
A) call the physician and ask to increase the Coumadin.
B) document the findings as normal and continue care.
C) encourage the client to order green leafy vegetables for dinner.
D) institute safety precautions for the client.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The optimal INR ratio for heparin therapy is 2.5 to 3. A reading of 5.8 is much too high and puts the client at risk for bleeding episodes. The nurse should place the client on safety precautions. The next dose of Coumadin may need to be held or reduced. The client should not alter the amount of green leafy vegetables in the diet because they contain vitamin K, which works to antagonize the effects of Coumadin.

The Nurse Is Assessing the Lab Work of a Client