D.K, a 72-year-old man, had a myocardial infarction (MI) 5 years ago. He has been diagnosed with classic (stable) angina. D.K is prescribed a beta blocker. His baseline vital signs are blood pressure 108/58; pulse 56 (at times irregular); and respirations 28. His past medical history includes asthma. How do beta blockers work to manage […]

J.F, a 47 year old male is being treated with digoxin for congestive heart failure. Before administration of the next dose, the nurse notes an apical pulse of 55 beats per minute. J.F complains of nausea and vision changes. J.F asks how digoxin can help his condition. How does the nurse respond? (USLO 5.2, 5.3, […]

After 5 days of heparin therapy, T.M was prescribed warfarin 5 mg PO daily. Why was T.M changed to warfarin? What is the pharmacologic action of warfarin? (USLO 5.2, 5.3, 5.4) What laboratory test(s) would be monitored for patients taking warfarin? Explain your answer. (USLO 5.3, 5.6, 5.8) Explain the half-life and protein-binding of warfarin. […]

T.M, a 57-year-old man, has thrombophlebitis in the right lower leg. IV heparin, 5000 units by bolus, was given. Following the IV bolus, heparin 5000 units given subQ q6h was prescribed. Other therapeutic means to decrease pain and alleviate swelling and redness were also prescribed. How does heparin work and why was it prescribed? (USLO […]

D.K was given alteplase in the emergency department while suffering from an acute myocardial infarction. D.K inquiries about why this drug was given. Explain why alteplase is given and how it works? (USLO 5.2, 5.3, 5.4) Explain some of the main concerns with the administration of thrombolytics. (USLO 5.3, 5.5, 5.6, 5.8) Explain the differences […]