A 70-year-old resident of a long-term care facility has experienced increasing pain, swelling, and redness to her lower leg over the past 12 hours, prompting the care providers at the facility to have the woman brought to the local emergency department. Diagnostic testing has confirmed deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and an IV infusion of alteplase (Activase) has been initiated. Unlike anticoagulants, a thrombolytic such as alteplase can
a) break down existing clots.
b) prevent the formation of new clots.
c) inhibit platelet aggregation.
d) potentiate the action of vitamin K.