What should the practical nurse teach about a possible adverse effect of taking an oral anticoagulant such as warfarin?

What should the practical nurse teach about a possible adverse effect of taking an oral anticoagulant such as warfarin?

• A. Bruising, or bleeding from her gums from hemorrhage
• B. Pain and edema in her lower legs from blood clots
• C. Shortness of breath from emboli formation
• D. Chest pain from a coronary thrombosis

Answer: (A)

Warfarin lowers the blood’s ability to clot by inhibiting vitamin K–dependent clotting factors, so the main adverse effect to teach about is increased bleeding. Bruising easily and gums that bleed with brushing are classic signs of this anticoagulant effect, reflecting a higher tendency to bleed even with minor trauma. The other scenarios describe problems caused by clots or emboli forming, which anticoagulants aim to prevent rather than cause; they are not typical adverse effects of taking warfarin. When counseling, emphasize recognizing signs of bleeding (unusual bruising, nosebleeds, heavy menstrual bleeding, prolonged bleeding from cuts, dark stool, vomiting blood) and taking steps to reduce injury risk, while staying in regular contact with a healthcare provider about monitoring and any diet or drug interactions.

Warfarin lowers the blood’s ability to clot by inhibiting vitamin K–dependent clotting factors, so the main adverse effect to teach about is increased bleeding. Bruising easily and gums that bleed with brushing are classic signs of this anticoagulant effect, reflecting a higher tendency to bleed even with minor trauma. The other scenarios describe problems caused by clots or emboli forming, which anticoagulants aim to prevent rather than cause; they are not typical adverse effects of taking warfarin. When counseling, emphasize recognizing signs of bleeding (unusual bruising, nosebleeds, heavy menstrual bleeding, prolonged bleeding from cuts, dark stool, vomiting blood) and taking steps to reduce injury risk, while staying in regular contact with a healthcare provider about monitoring and any diet or drug interactions.