What laboratory value should be monitored for a client prescribed heparin?
Red blood cells
International normalized ratio (INR)
Partial thromboplastin time (PTT)
Hematocrit
The Correct Answer is C
A. Red blood cells: While red blood cell counts provide information about oxygen-carrying capacity and anemia, they do not directly reflect the anticoagulant effect of heparin or the risk of bleeding due to its use. Monitoring RBCs is not sufficient for safe heparin therapy.
B. International normalized ratio (INR): INR is primarily used to monitor warfarin therapy, not heparin. It measures the extrinsic pathway of coagulation, whereas heparin affects the intrinsic pathway, so INR is not the appropriate laboratory value for heparin monitoring.
C. Partial thromboplastin time (PTT): PTT measures the effectiveness of the intrinsic and common coagulation pathways, which are directly affected by heparin. Monitoring PTT helps ensure that the client maintains a therapeutic anticoagulation range and reduces the risk of bleeding or clot formation.
D. Hematocrit: Hematocrit reflects the proportion of red blood cells in the blood and can indicate blood loss over time. While important for general assessment, it does not specifically monitor heparin’s anticoagulant effect and is not the primary lab value to guide dosing.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Bleeding: Heparin enhances the activity of antithrombin III, which inhibits clotting factors and prolongs clotting time. This mechanism increases the risk for bleeding, making it the most common and clinically significant adverse effect requiring close monitoring.
B. Hyperglycemia: Heparin does not interfere with insulin secretion or glucose metabolism. Elevated blood glucose levels are more commonly associated with corticosteroids, stress responses, or uncontrolled diabetes rather than anticoagulant therapy.
C. Constipation: Heparin does not affect gastrointestinal motility. Constipation is more frequently linked to opioid analgesics, anticholinergic medications, or reduced fluid and fiber intake.
D. Thrombus: Heparin is used to prevent and treat thrombus formation by inhibiting coagulation pathways. While heparin-induced thrombocytopenia can paradoxically increase clot risk, thrombus formation is not a typical direct side effect.
Correct Answer is {"A":{"answers":"A"},"B":{"answers":"A"},"C":{"answers":"A"},"D":{"answers":"A"}}
Explanation
Blood pressures be monitored regularly at home: Monitoring blood pressure at home helps the client track the effectiveness of antihypertensive therapy and detect trends that may require dose adjustments. It promotes early recognition of uncontrolled hypertension and allows timely communication with the healthcare provider.
• A low-sodium diet is recommended: Excess sodium intake contributes to fluid retention and increased blood pressure. Educating the client about reducing sodium supports medication efficacy and helps manage hypertension. Dietary modifications complement pharmacologic therapy to improve cardiovascular outcomes.
• Do not stop taking the medication abruptly: Abrupt discontinuation of antihypertensive medications can lead to rebound hypertension, which may cause stroke, myocardial infarction, or other cardiovascular complications. Clients should be educated to taper medications only under the guidance of a healthcare provider.
• Engage in regular exercise: Regular physical activity helps lower blood pressure by improving cardiovascular efficiency, reducing weight, and promoting vascular health. Exercise is an essential nonpharmacologic strategy that complements antihypertensive therapy and supports long-term blood pressure control.
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