A patient has been prescribed rivaroxaban (Xarelto) for deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Which statement by the patient indicates understanding of medication teaching?
A.
“I will take aspirin if I get a headache.”
B.
“I will avoid activities that may cause injury.”
C.
“I will take my medication with food.”
D.
“I will stop taking my medication if I feel better.”.
The Correct answer and Explanation is:
The correct answer is B. “I will avoid activities that may cause injury.”
Explanation:
Rivaroxaban (Xarelto) is an oral anticoagulant used to prevent and treat deep vein thrombosis (DVT), as well as other thromboembolic disorders. As an anticoagulant, rivaroxaban works by inhibiting Factor Xa, which is essential in the blood clotting process. It is important for patients taking rivaroxaban to understand several key aspects of its use to ensure both effectiveness and safety.
1. Avoiding Activities That May Cause Injury:
Patients on rivaroxaban need to be cautious about activities that could lead to injury or bleeding. The medication’s primary function is to reduce the blood’s ability to clot, which increases the risk of bleeding complications. Therefore, activities that could potentially cause trauma or bleeding, such as contact sports or heavy lifting, should be avoided. This precaution helps minimize the risk of bleeding-related complications, which can be severe or even life-threatening.
2. Aspirin Use:
Aspirin is another anticoagulant and can increase the risk of bleeding when used with rivaroxaban. Therefore, patients should not use aspirin for headaches or other conditions without consulting their healthcare provider. The combination of rivaroxaban and aspirin can significantly increase bleeding risks, and any additional medications or treatments should be discussed with a healthcare provider.
3. Medication Administration with Food:
Rivaroxaban can be taken with or without food, but taking it with food can improve absorption and reduce gastrointestinal discomfort. While this is a helpful instruction, it is not as critical as understanding the need to avoid activities that might cause injury.
4. Discontinuation of Medication:
Patients should not stop taking rivaroxaban without consulting their healthcare provider. Stopping the medication abruptly can increase the risk of clot formation and DVT recurrence. The medication should be taken consistently as prescribed, and any changes to its use should be discussed with a healthcare provider.
In summary, the most critical understanding for a patient on rivaroxaban is the need to avoid activities that could lead to bleeding or injury. This statement directly addresses a fundamental aspect of managing anticoagulant therapy and reflects the patient’s understanding of minimizing bleeding risks associated with the medication.