Question

The nurse is managing care for a patient with a DVT (deep vein thrombosis) of the right calf. The patient receives heparin intravenously (IV). What is the priority outcome for this patient?

1. The patient will comply with dietary restrictions.
2. The patient will keep the right leg elevated on two pillows.
3. The patient will not disturb the intravenous infusion.
4. The patient will not experience bleeding.

Answer 1

The priority outcome for a patient with DVT receiving heparin IV is to prevent bleeding complications. Regular assessments and monitoring of aPTT levels are essential to maintain therapeutic anticoagulation safely.

Step-by-step explanation:

The priority outcome for a patient with a DVT (deep vein thrombosis) who is receiving heparin intravenously is to ensure that the patient does not experience bleeding. Heparin is an anticoagulant that prevents blood clots from growing and new ones from forming, but it also increases the risk of bleeding.

While the other outcomes listed are important aspects of care—they contribute to overall health and safety—the immediate concern when administering heparin is to prevent bleeding complications. This is monitored through regular assessments of the patient's clinical status and laboratory values, such as the activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT), to ensure therapeutic levels of anticoagulation are maintained without causing excessive bleeding.