A nurse evaluates medication administration record (MAR). Listed below for a client with the following rhythm. Lisinopril 10 mg PO daily Digoxin 0.125 mcg PO daily Warfarin 5 mg PO every other day Furosemide 20 mg PO daily Which medication would the nurse expect to find on this client medication administration record to prevent a common complication of this condition?
Explanation & Rationale
A. Digoxin: Digoxin is used to increase myocardial contractility and control heart rate in conditions like heart failure or atrial fibrillation. While it manages symptoms and improves cardiac output, it does not directly prevent thromboembolic complications associated with arrhythmias. B. Lisinopril: Lisinopril, an ACE inhibitor, reduces afterload and helps manage blood pressure and heart failure symptoms. It protects the heart and kidneys but does not prevent clot formation or embolic events. C. Furosemide: Furosemide is a loop diuretic used to reduce fluid overload in heart failure, decreasing edema and pulmonary congestion. While it improves symptoms, it does not address the risk of thromboembolic complications. D. Warfarin: Warfarin is an anticoagulant prescribed to prevent thromboembolic events, a common complication in clients with atrial fibrillation or other cardiac conditions that cause stagnant blood flow in the atria. By inhibiting vitamin K–dependent clotting factors, warfarin reduces the risk of stroke and systemic embolism, making it essential in preventing this specific complication.