The nurse has reviewed the Provider Prescriptions at 1600. Exhibits The nurse is preparing the client for discharge. Select the 4 statements that indicate the teaching provided to the client about anticoagulant therapy was effective.
Explanation & Rationale
Rationale: A. "I will avoid all alcohol while taking this medication.": Alcohol can increase the risk of bleeding while a client is on anticoagulants by affecting platelet function and liver metabolism of the drug. Avoiding alcohol reduces the likelihood of complications such as gastrointestinal bleeding or excessive bruising, making this an appropriate and effective understanding of anticoagulant safety. B. "I will ask my provider before taking any supplements.": Many herbal supplements and over-the-counter medications can interact with anticoagulants, either increasing or decreasing their effect. Consulting the provider ensures the client avoids dangerous interactions that could lead to bleeding or clotting complications. C. "I will call my provider if I have blood in my urine.": Hematuria may indicate significant bleeding while on anticoagulant therapy. Promptly reporting this symptom allows early intervention and prevents serious complications such as anemia or renal damage, showing that the client understands the need to monitor for adverse effects. D. "I will plan to eat a green salad every day.": While leafy green vegetables are healthy, they are high in vitamin K, which can interfere with certain anticoagulants like warfarin. Regular high intake without provider guidance could reduce the medication’s effectiveness, so this statement reflects a misunderstanding rather than effective teaching. E. "I will stop taking the anticoagulant if I get a nosebleed.": Stopping anticoagulants without provider instruction can increase the risk of thromboembolism. Minor bleeding like a nosebleed should be reported, not managed by abruptly discontinuing the medication, so this reflects unsafe practice. F. "I will be careful to not cut myself.": Minimizing trauma and preventing cuts or injuries is essential while on anticoagulants because even minor injuries can lead to significant bleeding. This shows the client understands the practical precautions needed to stay safe during therapy.