A Patient Who Has Atrial Fibrillation (AF)has Been Taking Warfarin

question 4

Multiple Choice

A patient who has atrial fibrillation (AF) has been taking warfarin (Coumadin) .The primary care nurse practitioner (NP) plans to change the patient's medication to dabigatran (Pradaxa) .To do this safely,the NP should:

• A) initiate dabigatran when the patient's international normalized ratio (INR) is less than 2.
• B) start dabigatran 7 to 14 days after discontinuing warfarin.
• C) begin giving dabigatran 1 week before discontinuing warfarin.
• D) order frequent monitoring of the patient's INR after dabigatran therapy begins.

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Definitions:

Clockwise

A circular direction that follows the motion of the hands of a clock.

Counter-clockwise

A direction opposite to the typical forward movement of clock hands, often referenced in motor and machinery operations.

Phase Voltage

The voltage measured across a single phase in a multi-phase system, such as in three-phase electrical systems.

Coil Winding

The process of winding wire around a core or form to create an inductor or transformer, crucial in the manufacture of electric motors and other devices.