A client receives a prescription for heparin 900 units/hr IV. The IV bag contains heparin 25,000 units in 500 mL of 0.45% normal saline.

How many mL/hr should the nurse program the infusion pump to deliver?

Step 1 is to calculate the infusion rate. The prescription is for heparin 900 units/hr IV. The IV bag contains heparin 25,000 units in 500 mL of 0.45% normal saline.

So, the calculation would be (900 units ÷ 25,000 units) × 500 mL = 18 mL/hr.

Choice A rationale

Uterine atony refers to a condition where the uterus fails to contract sufficiently during and after childbirth. This lack of contraction can lead to excessive bleeding, also known as postpartum hemorrhage. This is because the contractions of the uterus after delivery help to compress the blood vessels and prevent bleeding. Therefore, uterine atony can cause a patient to hemorrhage.

Choice B rationale

Wound dehiscence refers to a surgical complication where an incision reopens either internally or externally. It can cause pain, infection, and organ protrusion. However, it is not directly associated with hemorrhaging.

Choice C rationale

Infection refers to the invasion of tissues by pathogens, their multiplication, and the reaction of host tissues to the infectious agent and the toxins they produce. While severe infections can lead to sepsis and disseminated intravascular coagulation, which can cause bleeding, they do not directly cause hemorrhaging.

Choice D rationale

Hemorrhage is a symptom, not a condition. It refers to excessive bleeding which can occur due to various conditions, including uterine atony.