Question

Why would heparin be added to PN solution?

A) To prevent infection
B) To promote wound healing
C) To prevent clot formation in the IV line
D) To enhance the absorption of nutrients

Answer 1

Heparin is added to a PN solution to prevent clot formation in the IV line because of its anticoagulant properties, which oppose prothrombin and maintain an open and free-flowing intravenous line.

Step-by-step explanation:

Heparin would be added to a PN (parenteral nutrition) solution to prevent clot formation in the IV line. Heparin is an anticoagulant, which means it helps prevent clots from forming. It operates by opposing prothrombin, which is a precursor to thrombin, and is essential in the blood clotting cascade. In a medical setting, particularly where intravenous lines are used for the delivery of fluids like PN, heparin can be added to ensure that the line remains open and free-flowing by avoiding clot formation. This application is not related to preventing infection, promoting wound healing, or enhancing the absorption of nutrients.