3 Warfarin Therapy Free Online FlashCards

What type of medicine is warfarin?

Warfarin is an oral vitamin K antagonist.

What does the INR measure?

The INR is a standardized measure of blood-clotting time.

How does INR testing guide warfarin dosing?

Warfarin doses are individualized to keep the INR within the patient’s prescribed target range. Only the prescriber or anticoagulation service should direct dose changes.

What is a common warfarin INR target for atrial fibrillation or venous thromboembolism?

A common target is 2.0 to 3.0 for atrial fibrillation and venous thromboembolism. The target depends on the indication; mechanical heart valves may require a different range.

What does an INR of 1.6 suggest when the target is 2.0 to 3.0?

An INR of 1.6 is below the prescribed range of 2.0 to 3.0, suggesting anticoagulation may be inadequate and clot risk may be higher. Contact the anticoagulation service; do not take an extra dose independently.

What may a clinician do for an INR of 4.8 without bleeding?

An INR of 4.8 is above the usual target and increases bleeding risk. A clinician may temporarily hold or adjust warfarin and arrange follow-up INR testing.

Is vitamin K routinely given for every elevated INR without bleeding?

Vitamin K is not routinely given for every elevated INR without bleeding. Management depends on the INR, bleeding risk, and clinical circumstances.

What should a patient do after remembering a missed warfarin dose the next day?

Do not double the next dose. Follow the prescriber’s missed-dose instructions or contact the anticoagulation service.

What monitoring and care-team communication should a warfarin patient maintain?

Keep scheduled INR tests and tell clinicians and dentists that you take warfarin.

How should a warfarin patient manage vitamin K-rich foods?

Keep vitamin K-rich foods in the diet reasonably consistent; eliminating them is not usually necessary.

What should a patient do before starting an interacting medicine or supplement?

Contact the prescriber or pharmacist before starting an antibiotic, supplement, or major diet change. Interactions may alter the INR or bleeding risk and may require closer monitoring.

Which warfarin-related symptoms or events need emergency care?

Seek emergency care for major or uncontrolled bleeding, vomiting blood, black or bloody stools, severe or unusual headache, or a head injury or fall, especially if the head was struck.