Heparin is administered prophylactically to prevent thromboembolic complications in clients who are immobilized for prolonged periods. It is not effective in preventing fat emboli or venous stasis or promoting vascular perfusion.
A client begins receiving methotrexate (Rheumatrex) for severe symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. What is the most important information for the nurse to give this client regarding the medication?
1. Take extra fiber and fluids to counteract the constipating effect.
2. It is very important to have periodic lab work done.
3. Take the drug on an empty stomach.
4. Hirsutism and menstrual changes sometimes develop as side effects.
Answer: 2
Lab work will need to be done periodically during administration to monitor for the development of anemia, leukopenia, thrombocytopenia, and/or hepatic toxicity. Hirsutism and menstrual changes occur with long-term corticosteroid use. Methotrexate should be given 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals to prevent vomiting when given PO. Antiemetics are given concurrently with the medication.