Cardiovascular System Practice Exam Related

Review Cardiovascular System Practice Exam related questions and content

The client on warfarin has an INR of 3.8. What is the most appropriate action by the nurse?

  • A. Administer vitamin K.
  • B. Hold the next dose of warfarin.
  • C. Increase the dose of warfarin.
  • D. Notify the healthcare provider immediately.
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Administer vitamin K. When a client on warfarin has an INR above the therapeutic range (usually 2-3), like in this case (3.8), administering vitamin K is appropriate to reverse the anticoagulant effects. This helps prevent bleeding complications. Holding the next dose of warfarin (B) may not be sufficient to lower the INR quickly. Increasing the dose of warfarin (C) would further elevate the INR, leading to higher bleeding risk. Notifying the healthcare provider (D) is important, but immediate action with vitamin K is necessary to address the high INR.