Warfarin Flashcards
1
Q
What is warfarin used for? How long does it take for the anticoagulant effect to develop fully?
A
Anti-coagulant - Takes 48-72 hours for anti-coagulant effect to develop fully
2
Q
What is warfarin highly protein bound to?
A
Albumin (99%)
3
Q
What does it mean when INR is high/low
A
INR high - more bleed
INR low - more clot
4
Q
Warfarin dose
A
For rapid anticoag - 10mg first day, 3-9mg maintenance
5
Q
Warfarin side effects (10)
A
Haemorrhage Rash Hypersensitivity Alopecia Diarrhoea Unexplained drop in haematocrit (packed cell volume) Purple toes Skin necrosis Jaundice Hepatic dysfunction
6
Q
Warfarin monitoring
A
INR, Renal function
7
Q
Warfarin counselling
A
Take at same time each day
Avoid major dietary changes (esp involving salads + veg) as it can affect the anticoagulant effect, report any signs of bleeding or spontaneous bruising
8
Q
Warfarin colours
A
White 0.5
Brown 1
Blue 3
Pink 5
