After receiving the third dose of a new oral anticoagulant prescription, an older adult client develops bleeding and tender gums and has many new bruises. Which action(s) should the nurse implement? Select all that apply.
Explanation & Rationale
A. Review most recent coagulation laboratory values: Checking coagulation studies like INR, PT, or aPTT is essential to assess the client's bleeding risk and determine if the anticoagulant effect is too strong, helping guide further medical management.B. Report findings to healthcare provider (HCP): Bleeding gums and easy bruising are signs of excessive anticoagulation, which could become life-threatening. Promptly notifying the HCP allows for immediate evaluation and possible adjustment of the medication.C. Complete a medication variance report: A medication variance report is appropriate when there is an error in prescribing, dispensing, or administering. Since this appears to be a medication side effect rather than an error, a variance report is not needed at this stage.D. Obtain a soft bristle toothbrush for client: Using a soft toothbrush minimizes trauma to the gums, helping to reduce the risk of further bleeding while still maintaining oral hygiene, an important supportive intervention for clients on anticoagulants.E. Provide a PRN nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug (NSAID) for gum discomfort: NSAIDs increase the risk of bleeding and should be avoided in clients taking anticoagulants. Treating discomfort with NSAIDs could worsen bleeding complications rather than relieve them safely.