Chapter 14: Drugs Affecting the Hematologic System Visovsky: Introduction to Clinical Pharmacology, 9th Edition

1. A patient with a clotting disorder is prescribed an anticoagulant and asks you to explain the purpose of anticoagulant therapy. What is your best response? a. Anticoagulants are used to lyse existing clots. b. Anticoagulants are used to increase the flow of blood. c. Anticoagulants are used to prevent new clot formation. d. Anticoagulants are used to thin the viscosity of the blood. ANS: C Anticoagulants are drugs that interfere with the clotting process, so they are used to reduce existing clots or to prevent new clots from forming. DIF: Cognitive Level: Remembering REF: p. 266 2. An older patient who takes a daily NSAID for arthritis pain has been prescribed aspirin as an antiplatelet agent. What information regarding risks associated with aspirin use should be included in this teaching plan? a. The risk for urinary retention b. The risk for cognitive decline c. The risk for gastrointestinal bleeding d. The risk for peripheral arterial disease ANS: C Most drugs that affect the blood clotting system, such as antiplatelet drugs, have the potential to cause bleeding, especially in older patients. DIF: Cognitive Level: Applying REF: p. 268 3. Which statement made by a patient with a recent coronary artery stent placement who is taking clopidogrel informs you that the patient requires further teaching about this drug? a. “I will avoid herbal supplements while taking this drug.” b. “I will need to take this drug every day for 3 months.” c. “I will report any abnormal bleeding.” d. “I will take this drug with food.”