Subcutaneous Heparin Administration.
A nurse is preparing to administer heparin subcutaneously to a client.
Which of the following actions should the nurse plan to take to minimize bleeding following the injection?
Use the Z-track method to administer the medication.
Grasp skin between thumb and forefinger throughout the injection.
Aspirate the syringe prior to injecting the heparin.
Gently massage the site following the injection.
The Correct Answer is B
When administering heparin subcutaneously, the nurse should grasp the skin between the thumb and forefinger throughout the injection to minimize bleeding following the injection.
Choice A is wrong because Use the Z-track method to administer the medication, is not the correct answer because the Z-track method is a technique used for intramuscular injections, not subcutaneous injections.
Choice C is wrong because Aspirate the syringe prior to injecting the heparin, is not the correct answer because aspiration is not necessary when administering heparin subcutaneously.
Choice D is wrong because Gently massage the site following the injection, is not the correct answer because massaging the injection site can increase the risk of bruising and bleeding.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
The nurse should instruct the client to administer the medication through clothing if necessary.

In an emergency, an epinephrine auto-injector can be given through clothing.
Choice A is wrong because massaging the site after injection is not mentioned as something to avoid in the instructions for using an epinephrine auto-injector.
Choice B is wrong because the medication should be injected into the outer thigh, not the abdomen.
Choice D is wrong because aspiration prior to administration of the medication is not mentioned as a necessary step in the instructions for using an epinephrine auto-injector.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
- A. Assist the client to a left lateral position.
- This is generally used for clients at risk of aspiration, and it's not indicated based on the lithium level.
- B. Implement fluid restrictions.
- Fluid restrictions are usually implemented when there is a risk of fluid overload or hyponatremia, and not in this case. In fact, dehydration can raise lithium levels to toxic levels, so proper hydration is important.
- C. Request a dosage increase from the provider.
- While 0.6 mEq/L is within the therapeutic range, some providers may want to see a level slightly higher for maintenance. So requesting a dosage increase from the provider is the correct action.
- D. Prepare the client for hemodialysis.
- Hemodialysis is used to remove lithium from the blood in cases of severe lithium toxicity, which is indicated by levels significantly higher than 1.5 mEq/L. This is not needed when the lithium level is 0.6 mEq/L.
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