The nurse should monitor laboratory results related to blood clotting when the client takes what drug(s) regularly? Select all that apply.
Explanation & Rationale
A. Acetaminophen: Acetaminophen does not significantly affect platelet function or clotting pathways. Routine clotting studies are not required unless liver toxicity is suspected at high doses, which might secondarily affect coagulation. B. Salicylates: Salicylates, such as aspirin, inhibit platelet aggregation and can prolong bleeding time. Clients on long-term therapy should have clotting parameters monitored, especially if they are at risk for bleeding. C. Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs): Some DMARDs can affect bone marrow function, leading to thrombocytopenia or pancytopenia. Regular monitoring of blood counts and clotting status is essential to detect complications early. D. Nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): NSAIDs inhibit cyclooxygenase and reduce platelet aggregation, increasing bleeding risk, especially when combined with anticoagulants. Monitoring clotting function is advisable in long-term or high-risk use. E. Gold compounds: Gold salts may lead to bone marrow suppression, including thrombocytopenia, which affects clotting. Clients on gold therapy require frequent monitoring of blood counts and clotting profiles to detect toxicity.