A nurse is caring for a client receiving intravenous (IV) heparin therapy for deep vein thrombosis (DVT). What is the nurse's priority action to ensure safe administration of the medication?
Monitoring the client's prothrombin time (PT) and international normalized ratio (INR).
Assessing the client's liver function regularly.
Administering heparin via a central venous catheter.
Monitoring the client's activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT).
The Correct Answer is D
A) This choice is incorrect because monitoring prothrombin time (PT) and international normalized ratio (INR) is more relevant to monitoring oral anticoagulant therapy (e.g., warfarin) and not intravenous heparin therapy.
B) This choice is incorrect because while liver function tests may be important for some medications, they are not the priority for clients on intravenous heparin therapy. Heparin is primarily eliminated by the kidneys.
C) This choice is incorrect because while administering heparin via a central venous catheter is possible, it is not the priority action for safe administration. Monitoring the client's response to heparin therapy is more important.
D) This choice is correct. Monitoring the client's activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) is the priority action when administering intravenous heparin. The aPTT reflects the client's response to heparin and helps adjust the dosage to achieve the desired therapeutic effect while minimizing the risk of bleeding.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) This choice is correct. Gender is a non-modifiable risk factor for DVT, with women generally having a higher risk than men. Hormonal changes, such as those associated with pregnancy, oral contraceptives, and hormone replacement therapy, can contribute to the increased risk in women.
B) This choice is incorrect because obesity is a modifiable risk factor for DVT, not a non-modifiable one. Clients can work to achieve and maintain a healthy weight to reduce their risk.
C) This choice is incorrect because smoking history is a modifiable risk factor for DVT. Clients can quit smoking to decrease their risk of blood clot formation.
D) This choice is incorrect because a sedentary lifestyle is a modifiable risk factor for DVT. Clients can engage in regular physical activity to reduce their risk.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A) This choice is incorrect because fasting is not necessary before a venous Doppler ultrasound. The client can eat and drink normally before the test.
B) This choice is incorrect because the client should continue to take prescribed medications as usual unless otherwise instructed by the healthcare provider. Medications that thin the blood, such as anticoagulants, may not be stopped before the test.
C) This choice is correct. The client should wear loose-fitting clothing that can be easily removed to allow access to the affected area during the ultrasound. This facilitates the ultrasound technician's ability to perform the test accurately.
D) This choice is incorrect because contrast dye is not typically used in a venous Doppler ultrasound. Contrast venography may involve the use of contrast dye, but not Doppler ultrasound.
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