A patient with a VTE is started on IV heparin and then Warfarin (Coumadin) is added to the oders. The patient asks the nurse why two medications are necessary. Which response by the nurse is most accurate?
A. Heparin will start to dissolve the clot and warfarin will prevent any further clots from forming.
B. Heparin will work right away, but warfarin takes several days to begin preventing.
C. Because of the risk for blood clot in the lungs, it is important for you to take more than one anticoagulant.
D. Taking 2 anticoagulants greatly reduces the risk for another clot to form.
