Question

What is important to know about heparin? (normal lab, antidote)

a) Normal lab values for heparin include aPTT.

b) The antidote for heparin is vitamin K.

c) Heparin is monitored using PT/INR.

d) Heparin increases platelet aggregation.

Answer 1

Heparin is an anticoagulant monitored by aPTT used in situations such as surgery to prevent blood clots. Protamine sulfate is its antidote, and it does not increase platelet aggregation.

Step-by-step explanation:

Important information about heparin includes its role as an anticoagulant, the typical laboratory monitoring, and its antidote. Heparin is a short-acting anticoagulant stored in mast cells and is released when tissues are injured, where it opposes the conversion of prothrombin to thrombin. To monitor its effectiveness, activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) is used rather than PT/INR, which is utilized for monitoring warfarin therapy. Protamine sulfate is the antidote for heparin, not vitamin K, which is used for warfarin overdoses. Additionally, rather than increasing platelet aggregation, heparin helps to prevent clot formation.