Cardiac-Vascular Nursing (CVRN) Practice Exam

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Prepare for the Cardiac-Vascular Nursing Exam. Study with comprehensive multiple-choice questions and in-depth explanations. Enhance your knowledge and ensure success on your test!

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What effect does excessive alcohol use have on patients taking warfarin (Coumadin)?

Decreased anticoagulation effect
Decreased international normalized ratio
Increased anticoagulation effect
Increased vitamin K absorption

The correct answer is: Increased anticoagulation effect

Excessive alcohol use can significantly impact the anticoagulation effect of warfarin, leading to an increased anticoagulation effect. This occurs because alcohol can interfere with the metabolism of warfarin in the liver, which is where warfarin is processed. Alcohol can inhibit certain enzymes involved in the metabolism of warfarin, particularly when consumed in excess. By inhibiting warfarin metabolism, excessive alcohol can lead to higher levels of the medication in the bloodstream. As a result, this enhances the anticoagulant effect, increasing the risk of bleeding complications in patients taking warfarin. Additionally, excessive alcohol consumption may also disrupt the balance of vitamin K and impair liver function, further complicating anticoagulation management. Understanding this interaction is crucial for cardiac-vascular nursing, as it enables nurses to provide appropriate education to patients regarding alcohol consumption while on anticoagulant therapy. Effective management and assessment of these interactions can help prevent adverse effects and ensure safe and effective patient care.