A nurse is caring for a client who has a deep vein thrombosis, who received IV heparin for the past 5 days, and now has a new prescription for oral warfarin in addition to the heparin. The client asks the nurse if both medications are necessary. Which of the following is an appropriate response by the nurse?

A. Referring the client to the charge nurse does not provide the necessary education and may leave the client confused or anxious; the nurse should provide an immediate, accurate explanation. B. Heparin and warfarin do not dissolve clots; they prevent clot extension and formation of new clots, allowing the body’s natural fibrinolytic system to break down existing clots. C. Heparin is continued temporarily because warfarin takes several days (usually 4–5 days) to achieve a therapeutic INR level. This overlap ensures continuous anticoagulation and reduces the risk of clot propagation while waiting for warfarin’s effect. D. Heparin does not enhance warfarin’s effect directly; its role is to provide immediate anticoagulation until warfarin becomes effective.