A nurse is reviewing laboratory data from a client who has a pulmonary embolism and is receiving IV heparin.
Which of the following findings should the nurse report to the provider?
Patient's platelets 100,000.
Prothrombin time (PT) 12 seconds.
Thrombin time (TT) 55 seconds.
Hematocrit 35%.
The Correct Answer is A
“Patient’s platelets 100,000.” A nurse should report a low platelet count to the provider because it may indicate heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT), a serious complication of heparin therapy.
Choice B is not correct because a Prothrombin time (PT) of 12 seconds is within the normal range and does not need to be reported.
Choice C is not correct because Thrombin time (TT) is not typically used to monitor heparin therapy.
Choice D is not correct because a Hematocrit of 35% is within the normal range and does not need to be reported.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
This is the first step in controlling bleeding and preventing hematoma formation 1.
Applying direct pressure to the wound with a sterile gauze or a clean cloth can help stop the bleeding 2.
Choice A is not the best answer because a tourniquet should only be used as a last resort to control life-threatening bleeding from a limb 2.
Choice B is not the best answer because placing the client in a modified Trendelenburg position is not necessary for this situation.
Choice D is not the best answer because settling the client in a reclining position is not necessary for this situation.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
The nurse should include in the teaching that the client should use a soft-bristled toothbrush.
Heparin is an anticoagulant that decreases the clotting ability of the blood 1.
Using a soft-bristled toothbrush can help prevent bleeding of the gums while brushing teeth.
Choice B is incorrect because heparin should not be injected deep into the thigh muscle.
Instead, it should be given subcutaneously (under the skin) 2.
Choice C is incorrect because black and tarry stools are not an expected side effect of heparin.
Choice D is incorrect because easy bruising does not indicate that the medication is effective.
Instead, easy bruising may be a side effect of heparin and should be reported to the healthcare provider 1.
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