Questions: A client is receiving apixaban. Which medication instruction should the nurse reinforce during client teaching? Avoid people with upper respiratory infections. The medication will be discontinued before surgery. Monitor for signs of deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Administer the medication with urokinase. SUBMIT ANSWER Exit quiz

The answer is: The medication will be discontinued before surgery.

Explanation for each option:

1. Avoid people with upper respiratory infections.
   This instruction is not directly related to apixaban. Apixaban is an anticoagulant used to prevent blood clots, and while avoiding infections is generally good advice for maintaining overall health, it is not specific to the use of apixaban.

2. The medication will be discontinued before surgery.
   This is the correct instruction. Apixaban, like other anticoagulants, increases the risk of bleeding. Therefore, it is typically discontinued before surgical procedures to reduce the risk of excessive bleeding during and after surgery. The timing of discontinuation should be guided by the healthcare provider based on the type of surgery and the patient's risk factors.

3. Monitor for signs of deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
   While monitoring for signs of DVT is important, apixaban is actually used to prevent DVT and other thromboembolic events. Therefore, this instruction is not specific to the administration of apixaban but rather a general precaution for patients at risk of DVT.

4. Administer the medication with urokinase.
   This is incorrect. Urokinase is a thrombolytic agent used to dissolve blood clots, and it is not typically administered with apixaban. Combining these medications could significantly increase the risk of bleeding, and such combinations should only be considered under specific medical guidance.