A client has a prescription for heparin 5000 units IV STAT. Several pre-filled syringes of low molecular weight heparin are available in the client’s medication drawer. Which action should the nurse implement?

Request a prescription to change the route of administration and use the available heparin.

Calculate and administer the equivalent dose of the available low molecular weight heparin.

Dilute the available heparin in 250 ml of normal saline solution prior to IV administration.

Advise the pharmacy of the need to deliver a vial of heparin to the nursing unit immediately.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is D

Choice A reason:

Requesting a prescription to change the route of administration and use the available heparin is not appropriate. Low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) and unfractionated heparin (UFH) are not interchangeable on a unit-for-unit basis. They have different pharmacokinetics and dosing requirements. Changing the route without proper guidance can lead to incorrect dosing and potential complications.

Choice B reason:

Calculating and administering the equivalent dose of the available low molecular weight heparin is incorrect. LMWH and UFH have different dosing protocols and are not directly interchangeable. Administering LMWH instead of UFH without proper conversion and guidance can result in inappropriate anticoagulation.

Choice C reason:

Diluting the available heparin in 250 ml of normal saline solution prior to IV administration is not appropriate. The prescription specifies heparin 5000 units IV STAT, which indicates an immediate need for intravenous administration. Diluting and administering it in this manner does not align with the urgency of the order.

Choice D reason:

Advising the pharmacy of the need to deliver a vial of heparin to the nursing unit immediately is the correct action. This ensures that the client receives the prescribed medication in the correct form and dosage as ordered by the healthcare provider. It is crucial to follow the specific instructions for heparin administration to ensure patient safety and effective anticoagulation.

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Free Nursing Study Resources

Correct Answer is ["2"]

Explanation

Step-by-Step Calculation

Step 1: Determine the total units prescribed.

The prescription is for 1.2 million units.

Step 2: Determine the concentration of the available vial.

The vial is labeled “600,000 units/mL.”

Step 3: Calculate the volume to be administered.

Volume to be administered = Total units prescribed ÷ Concentration of the vial
Volume to be administered = 1,200,000 units ÷ 600,000 units/mL

Result: The nurse should administer 2 mL.

A. Inquire about perceived anxiety. B. Determine what time the dose is taken. C. Determine daily caffeine intake. D. Ask about the client’s bedtime routine.

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

Choice A Reason:

Inquiring about perceived anxiety is important because anxiety can contribute to sleep difficulties. However, in the context of a client taking dextroamphetamine-amphetamine, the timing of the medication is more directly related to sleep disturbances. While anxiety should be assessed, it is not the most critical factor in this scenario.

Choice B Reason:

Determining what time the dose is taken is crucial because dextroamphetamine-amphetamine is a stimulant that can interfere with sleep if taken too late in the day. Extended-release formulations are designed to provide a steady release of medication throughout the day, but taking the dose too late can lead to insomnia. Adjusting the timing of the dose can help mitigate sleep disturbances.

Choice C Reason:

Determining daily caffeine intake is relevant because caffeine is a stimulant that can also contribute to sleep difficulties. However, the primary concern in this scenario is the timing of the dextroamphetamine-amphetamine dose. While caffeine intake should be assessed, it is secondary to the medication timing.

Choice D Reason:

Asking about the client’s bedtime routine is important for understanding overall sleep hygiene. Good sleep hygiene practices can help improve sleep quality. However, in this context, the timing of the stimulant medication is more directly related to the reported sleep difficulties. Therefore, while bedtime routine is important, it is not the most critical assessment.

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A client has a prescription for heparin 5000 units IV STAT. Several pre-filled syringes of low molecular weight heparin are available in the client’s medication drawer. Which action should the nurse implement?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A client receives a prescription for penicillin 1.2 million units IM. The available vial is labeled, “600,000 units/mL.” How many mL should the nurse administer? (Enter numeric value only.)

Correct Answer is ["2"]

Explanation

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Correct Answer is B

Explanation

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