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

What is an important nursing intervention for anticoagulant therapy?

1. Monitoring hair growth

2. Routine monitoring of vital signs

3. Ensuring patient is always in a seated position

4. Providing a high-carb diet

The correct answer is: Routine monitoring of vital signs

An important nursing intervention for anticoagulant therapy is routine monitoring of vital signs. Anticoagulants are medications that prevent blood clotting, and can potentially cause bleeding complications if not properly managed. Monitoring vital signs, such as heart rate, blood pressure, and respiratory rate, can detect any potential bleeding and allow for prompt intervention. Choices A, C, and D are not pertinent to anticoagulant therapy and could potentially be harmful to the patient. Monitoring hair growth is not related to the therapy and may divert attention from other necessary interventions. Ensuring the patient is always in a seated position is not necessary and may cause discomfort. Providing a high-carb diet is also unnecessary and could potentially interact with the anticoagulant medication.