Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 78%
Simulated
A nurse is preparing to administer dabigatran to a client who has atrial fibrillation. The nurse should explain that the purpose of this medication is which of the following?
Correct answer
D
Rationale
Correct Answer: D - To reduce the risk of stroke in clients who have atrial fibrillation
Rationale:
1. Dabigatran is a direct thrombin inhibitor used as an anticoagulant to prevent blood clots.
2. Atrial fibrillation increases the risk of blood clots forming in the heart, which can lead to strokes.
3. Dabigatran helps by preventing the formation of these blood clots, thus reducing the risk of stroke.
Summary:
A - Incorrect: Dabigatran does not convert atrial fibrillation to sinus rhythm. It is used for stroke prevention.
B - Incorrect: Dabigatran does not dissolve existing clots but prevents new ones from forming.
C - Incorrect: Dabigatran does not directly affect the response of the ventricles to atrial impulses. Its main purpose is stroke prevention.
Rationale:
1. Dabigatran is a direct thrombin inhibitor used as an anticoagulant to prevent blood clots.
2. Atrial fibrillation increases the risk of blood clots forming in the heart, which can lead to strokes.
3. Dabigatran helps by preventing the formation of these blood clots, thus reducing the risk of stroke.
Summary:
A - Incorrect: Dabigatran does not convert atrial fibrillation to sinus rhythm. It is used for stroke prevention.
B - Incorrect: Dabigatran does not dissolve existing clots but prevents new ones from forming.
C - Incorrect: Dabigatran does not directly affect the response of the ventricles to atrial impulses. Its main purpose is stroke prevention.