Understanding Blood Thinners

Blood thinners are prescribed to slow down or prevent the formation of blood clots.  But, having the blood clot is a natural process that protects the body after an injury.  So, when is preventing this process a good thing?  It is beneficial for clients who are at risk for serious conditions such as:

• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
• Heart attack.
• Stroke.
• Atrial fibrillation (an irregular, rapid heart rate).

The goal of the medication is to strike a balance between preventing harmful blood clots and allowing healthy blood clots when cuts or other injuries occur.

There are two main types of blood thinners:  anti-coagulants, like Coumadin, and anti-platelets, like aspirin.  Both types interfere with one or more steps of the clotting process.

Clients who take blood thinners will probably have a notation in their care plan about “bleeding precautions.”   

Encourage clients on blood thinners to:

• Take their medication exactly as directed.
• Avoid taking vitamin K without checking with their doctor.  Vitamin K can be found in daily vitamin pills; supplement drinks like Ensure and Boost; herbal supplements; and foods such as green leafy vegetables, asparagus, green onions, and soy products.
• Skip rough foods like nuts, raw carrots or corn on the cob.  They can scrape the inside of the mouth and cause bleeding.
• Avoid drinking alcohol and cranberry juice—both can interfere with the medication.
• Wear shoes or non-skid slippers at all times to avoid a scrape or cut on the feet.
• Take care when ambulating.  Falling down can lead to both external and internal bleeding!