If a resident on Coumadin requests aspirin for pain relief, what is the best action?

When a resident on Coumadin requests aspirin for pain relief, notifying the charge nurse is the best course of action. Coumadin, which is a blood thinner (anticoagulant), increases the risk of bleeding, and aspirin can further elevate this risk due to its own anticoagulant properties.

By notifying the charge nurse, you ensure that the situation is assessed by a qualified professional who can make an informed decision based on the resident's overall health status, current medications, and any additional pain management options that may be safer. This is particularly important since combining aspirin with Coumadin without appropriate oversight could lead to serious complications.

The other options involve actions that may not adequately address the potential risks involved with the resident's request. Administering aspirin with caution does not eliminate the inherent risks and may lead to unintended harm. Suggesting an alternative medication without proper guidance could similarly overlook safety concerns, and advising the resident to wait may not effectively manage their pain in a timely manner. Overall, consulting the charge nurse ensures proper protocol is followed to safeguard the resident's health.