Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 68%
Simulated
A nurse is preparing to administer warfarin to a client. Which of the following findings indicates a contraindication?
Correct answer
D
Rationale
The correct answer is D: Decreased vitamin K level. Warfarin is an anticoagulant that works by inhibiting vitamin K-dependent clotting factors. If a client already has a decreased vitamin K level, administering warfarin could further increase the risk of bleeding. A history of artificial heart valve (choice B) would actually warrant the use of warfarin to prevent clot formation. Blood pressure (choice A) and heart rate (choice C) are within normal limits and do not directly contraindicate warfarin administration.