Choice A rationale

Heparin does not actually thin the blood or make it less thick. Instead, it works by increasing the activity of antithrombin, a protein that inhibits blood clotting. This prevents new clots from forming and existing clots from growing larger.

Choice B rationale

Heparin does not dissolve clots or decrease the formation of platelets. Its primary action is to increase the activity of antithrombin, which in turn inactivates thrombin and factor Xa, two key players in the blood clotting process.

Choice C rationale

This statement is accurate. Heparin does not thin the blood; instead, it prevents new clots from forming and existing clots from growing larger. It does this by increasing the activity of antithrombin, which in turn inactivates thrombin and factor Xa.

Choice D rationale

Heparin does not decrease the number of platelets or make the blood flow more easily. Its primary action is to increase the activity of antithrombin, which in turn inactivates thrombin and factor Xa.

Choice A rationale

While obtaining a full set of vital signs is an important part of assessing a patient’s condition, it should not be the initial action in this case. The symptoms described by the patient suggest hypoglycemia, which requires immediate confirmation and treatment.

Choice B rationale

Administering 1 mg glucagon subcutaneously is not the initial action. Glucagon is used to treat severe hypoglycemia when the patient is unable to take glucose orally. However, the patient’s blood glucose level should be checked first.

Choice C rationale

Administering 25 mL of 50% dextrose is not the initial action. This treatment is used for severe hypoglycemia, but the patient’s blood glucose level should be checked first to confirm hypoglycemia.

Choice D rationale

Obtaining a blood glucose reading is the correct initial action. The symptoms described by the patient suggest hypoglycemia. Checking the blood glucose level will confirm whether the patient is hypoglycemic and needs treatment.