Questions and Answers
What drug class does Warfarin belong to?
The contraindications for Warfarin include __________, peptic ulcer, and severe hepatic disease.
bleeding disorder
What is the mode of action of Warfarin?
Depresses hepatic synthesis of vitamin K clotting factors (II, VII, IX, and X)
List some side effects of Warfarin.
Signup and view all the answers
What is a life-threatening adverse reaction of Warfarin?
Signup and view all the answers
Name one factor that may increase the effect of Warfarin.
Signup and view all the answers
What route of administration is used for Warfarin?
Signup and view all the answers
What is an important assessment to perform before administering Warfarin?
Signup and view all the answers
What should a patient's PT or INR levels be when planning Warfarin therapy?
Signup and view all the answers
What should patients be advised about shaving while on Warfarin?
Signup and view all the answers
True or False: Warfarin has a long half-life and a very long duration.
Signup and view all the answers
What is the antidote for Warfarin overdose?
Signup and view all the answers
What conditions is Warfarin used to prevent?
Signup and view all the answers
Study Notes
Warfarin Overview
- Warfarin (Coumadin) is classified as an anticoagulant, used to prevent blood clots.
Contraindications
- Not suitable for patients with bleeding disorders, peptic ulcers, recent strokes, severe liver or kidney disease, eclampsia, hemophilia, and alcoholism.
- Use caution in patients with diabetes and leukemia.
Mode of Action
- Works by inhibiting the hepatic synthesis of vitamin K-dependent clotting factors: II (prothrombin), VII, IX, and X.
Side Effects
- Common side effects include anorexia, gastrointestinal disturbances, abdominal cramps, skin reactions, and fever.
Adverse Reactions
- Life-threatening reaction includes hemorrhage; other significant reaction is Purple Toe Syndrome.
Drug-Lab-Food Interactions
- Drug interactions can enhance effects with amiodarone, NSAIDs, some antibiotics, and vitamin E; reduce effects with barbiturates, certain vitamins, and oral contraceptives.
- Lab tests may show increased AST and ALT levels.
- Diets high in vitamin K can decrease warfarin's effectiveness.
Route of Administration
- Administered orally (PO).
Assessment Considerations
- Obtain full health history related to clotting, including liver and renal function.
- Monitor potential drug interactions, especially with highly protein-bound medications.
- Establish baseline PT or INR before therapy initiation.
Planning Goals
- Aim for PT of 1.25 to 2.5 times the control level, or INR between 2-3 while preventing excessive bleeding.
Nursing Interventions
- Monitor vital signs; increased pulse with decreased systolic pressure may indicate bleeding.
- Regularly check mucous membranes, urine, skin, and stools for signs of bleeding.
- Keep anticoagulant antagonists like Vitamin K readily available in emergencies.
Patient Teaching
- Encourage informing healthcare providers and dentists when using warfarin.
- Advise use of soft toothbrushes and electric razors to minimize bleeding risks.
- Warn against smoking due to its effect on drug metabolism.
- Caution against OTC medications and herbal supplements that may interact.
- Educate on managing external bleeding through direct pressure.
Dietary Considerations
- Patients should avoid or be consistent with intake of foods high in vitamin K and limit caffeine and alcohol consumption.
- Awareness of dietary supplements that may reduce warfarin efficacy, such as Coenzyme Q10 and garlic.
Evaluation of Therapy
- Assess drug therapy effectiveness by monitoring PT or INR levels and ensuring absence of significant side effects.
Clinical Uses
- Primarily used to prevent thromboembolic events such as deep vein thrombosis (thrombophlebitis), pulmonary embolism, and strokes related to atrial fibrillation.
Pharmacokinetics
- Warfarin has a long half-life and a sustained action, necessitating careful monitoring of effects and dosages.
Antidote for Overdose
- Vitamin K is the specific antidote for warfarin overdose but requires careful administration.
Studying That Suits You
Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.
Description
Test your knowledge about Warfarin, an anticoagulant drug, with these flashcards. The quiz covers various aspects including its drug class, contraindications, and mode of action. Ideal for students in pharmacology or healthcare fields.
