Why is Coumadin a concern for an elderly patient who falls and hits their head?

Why is Coumadin a concern for an elderly patient who falls and hits their head?

• A. It is a blood thinner
• B. It increases clotting
• C. It raises blood pressure
• D. It causes dehydration

Answer: (A)

Coumadin acts as an anticoagulant, meaning it lowers the blood’s ability to clot by inhibiting the clotting factors the body uses to stop bleeding. After a head impact, any bleeding inside the skull can start and spread more because the blood isn’t clotting well. This risk is especially serious in the elderly, who are more prone to brain bleeding such as subdural hematomas after a fall. Even a minor head injury can lead to a dangerous intracranial bleed that may worsen over time, so Coumadin use after head trauma is a major concern and requires urgent evaluation and imaging to assess and manage potential bleeding. If you notice changes in consciousness, severe headache, vomiting, or new weakness, seek immediate care.

Coumadin acts as an anticoagulant, meaning it lowers the blood’s ability to clot by inhibiting the clotting factors the body uses to stop bleeding. After a head impact, any bleeding inside the skull can start and spread more because the blood isn’t clotting well. This risk is especially serious in the elderly, who are more prone to brain bleeding such as subdural hematomas after a fall. Even a minor head injury can lead to a dangerous intracranial bleed that may worsen over time, so Coumadin use after head trauma is a major concern and requires urgent evaluation and imaging to assess and manage potential bleeding. If you notice changes in consciousness, severe headache, vomiting, or new weakness, seek immediate care.