A nurse is reinforcing teaching with a client who has a new prescription for enoxaparin. The nurse should identify which of the following over-the- counter products as unsafe for use with enoxaparin?
Explanation & Rationale
A. Docusate. Docusate is a stool softener that helps prevent constipation, which can be beneficial for clients taking enoxaparin, as straining during bowel movements can increase the risk of bleeding. It does not have anticoagulant properties and does not pose a significant risk of increased bleeding. B. Cimetidine. Cimetidine, an H2-receptor antagonist used to reduce stomach acid, does not directly increase bleeding risk. However, long-term use can affect liver metabolism and interact with some anticoagulants, but it is not considered unsafe for routine use with enoxaparin. C. Calcium supplement. Calcium supplements are commonly used for bone health and do not interfere with enoxaparin’s anticoagulant effects. They do not increase bleeding risk and are generally safe for clients taking anticoagulants. D. Naproxen. Naproxen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that inhibits platelet aggregation and increases the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding. When combined with enoxaparin, which is a low-molecular-weight heparin, the risk of bleeding complications, including gastrointestinal and intracranial hemorrhage, significantly increases. Clients should be advised to use acetaminophen for pain relief instead of NSAIDs while taking enoxaparin.