Question

A nurse is providing discharge teaching to a client who is to self-administer heparin subcutaneously. Which of the following statements by the client indicates an understanding of the teaching?

A. "I should inject heparin into a muscle for better absorption."
B. "I will avoid rotating injection sites to prevent discomfort."
C. "I should aspirate for blood before administering heparin."
D. "I will apply pressure to the injection site after administering heparin."

Answer 1

The client demonstrates understanding of heparin self-administration by choosing to apply pressure to the injection site after administration, which is standard procedure for subcutaneous injections to prevent bleeding and bruising.

Step-by-step explanation:

The subject of this question revolves around the correct method to self-administer heparin subcutaneously, which is essential for preventing blood clots in patients who require it. The correct answer to this question is "D. I will apply pressure to the injection site after administering heparin." This indicates an understanding of the teaching because heparin is typically injected subcutaneously, not intramuscularly, and one should not aspirate for blood because it's not recommended during subcutaneous injections. Additionally, rotating injection sites helps to prevent skin complications, not avoiding rotating them. Applying gentle pressure to the site after injection can help to prevent bruising and bleeding.