Question

A postpartum client developed a deep vein thrombosis and an IV infusion of heparin therapy was instituted 2 days ago. Her activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) is now 98 seconds. What should the nurse do?

A. Increase the intravenous rate of heparin
B. Interrupt the infusion and notify the practitioner of the aPTT result
C. Document the result on the medical record and recheck the aPTT in four hours
D. Call the practitioner to obtain a prescription for a low-molecular weight heparin

Answer 1

The nurse should interrupt the infusion and notify the practitioner of the aPTT result.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse should interrupt the infusion and notify the practitioner of the aPTT result. An aPTT value of 98 seconds indicates that the client's blood is not clotting adequately and is at risk for bleeding. The nurse should alert the practitioner to this abnormal result so that appropriate action can be taken to prevent complications.