Pharmacology and the Nursing Process by Linda Lane Lilley: Practice Exam

How do thrombolytic drugs differ from anticoagulants?

1. Prevent clot formation

2. Inhibit platelet aggregation

3. Lyse already formed clots

4. Alter platelet function

The correct answer is: Lyse already formed clots

Thrombolytic drugs, also known as clot busters, differ from anticoagulants in that they specifically target and dissolve already formed blood clots. In contrast, anticoagulants prevent the formation of blood clots by inhibiting the activity of certain clotting factors in the blood. While both classes of medication can help prevent the development or worsening of blood clots, thrombolytic drugs are used in emergency situations for the quick removal of blockages, such as in the case of a heart attack or stroke. Anticoagulants, on the other hand, are used for ongoing or long-term management of conditions like deep vein thrombosis or atrial fibrillation. Therefore, options A, B, and D are incorrect as they all refer to the prevention or alteration of clot formation, not the dissolution of existing clots.