Question

A nurse is caring for a client who is receiving a continuous heparin infusion. Which of the following laboratory tests should the nurse review prior to adjusting the client's heparin?

a) Platelet count

b) Serum creatinine

c) Prothrombin time (PT)

d) Activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT)

Answer 1

The nurse should review the activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) lab test prior to adjusting the client's heparin. The aPTT measures the time it takes for a clot to form, which is directly affected by the level of heparin in the blood.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse should review the d) Activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT)

lab test prior to adjusting the client's heparin. The aPTT measures the time it takes for a clot to form, which is directly affected by the level of heparin in the blood. By reviewing the aPTT, the nurse can determine if the client is receiving the correct dose of heparin.