Warfarin is among the Anticoagulants used for the retardation of blood clotting.
Therapeutic level is 2 to 3.
2.5 to 3.5 for heart valve replacement patients.
INR of less than 2 is dangerous because of blood clots. High INR greater than 3 will result in bleeding.
Follow your facility policy and procedures and the doctor orders. Also use your facility laboratory results and values.
Antidote for WARFARIN is vitamin K.It is used to treat Coumadin overdose.
Warfarin 👨🦯is also known as coumadin. Warfarin is very slow to act unlike Heparin🏃♂️ that is fast.
Generic name is Warfarin.
Brand name is Coumadin.
Purpose /Action:Anticoagulants for blood clots. It inhibits clotting by interfering with hepatic synthesis of vitamin K clotting factors. It is use to prevent further formation of blood clots especially in patients with known Valvular diseases, Arrhythmias, PE,DVT and stroke.
Onset is 24 to 72 hours.
Peak is usually 3 to 4days.
Duration is 2 to 5days.
Half – life is to 20 to 60hours
Taken by mouth. (Oral)and in the evening.
Common side effects .
Bleeding.
Dizziness.
Bruises.
Nursing Responsibilities.
Monitor patient blood levels specifically INR DAILY in hospital and usually WEEKLY.Then monthly once the patient is discharged home.
2.Instruct patient to report any symptoms of bleeding.
3.No surgical intervention while on Coumadin (Risk of bleeding)call and notify the doctor before any surgery.
4.Explain to patient how some drugs can interact with Coumadin. For example Aspirin, antidotes, Chemotherapy drugs, steroids and alcohol can increase activity of Coumadin. While Estrogen, barbiturates and dilantin can decrease the activity of Coumadin.
5.Instruct patient to avoid excessive alcohol consumption.
6.Instruct patient to wear medi alert braces.
NB: “ANTICOAGULANTS DO NOT DISSOLVE CLOTS .THEY ARE PROPHYLACTIC”.
