Question

The client returns from surgery following a coronary artery bypass graft with a mitral valve replacement. Which medication will be ordered for the client who has a metal valve replacement? A. Chlorothiazide (Diuril) B. Clonidine \(\mathrm{HCl}\) (Catapres) C. Sodium warfarin (Coumadin) D. Propranolol (Inderal)

Short answer

Answer: C. Sodium warfarin (Coumadin)

Step-by-step solution

Identify the purpose of each medication

First, we need to understand what each medication in the options does and for what conditions they are prescribed. * Chlorothiazide (Diuril) - A diuretic used for treating high blood pressure and fluid retention caused by heart failure or liver disease. * Clonidine HCl (Catapres) - An alpha-2 adrenergic agonist used for treating high blood pressure, severe pain, and ADHD. * Sodium warfarin (Coumadin) - An anticoagulant (blood thinner) used for treating and preventing blood clots in veins, arteries, or lungs. * Propranolol (Inderal) - A beta-blocker used for treating high blood pressure, irregular heartbeats, tremors, and migraine headaches.

Analyze the client's condition

The client has undergone a coronary artery bypass graft and a mitral valve replacement using a metal valve. This means that the client has had a heart procedure and now has an artificial component (the metal valve) within their circulatory system.

Identify the most appropriate medication

Based on the client's condition and the purpose of each medication, Sodium warfarin (Coumadin) is the most appropriate medication. This is because warfarin is an anticoagulant, which helps in preventing blood clots that could potentially form around the metal valve and cause complications such as stroke. Therefore, the answer is: C. Sodium warfarin (Coumadin)