Question

The laboratory calls to report a drop in the platelet count to 90,000/mm3 for a patient receiving heparin for the treatment of postoperative deep vein thrombosis. Which action by the nurse is the most appropriate?

Answer 1

The nurse should notify the healthcare provider immediately and follow their instructions.

Step-by-step explanation:

Platelets are critical for blood clotting and stopping blood flow after a vessel is damaged. Heparin is an anticoagulant medication used to prevent blood clots, but it can also cause a decrease in platelet count. A platelet count of 90,000/mm3 is lower than the normal range
`(150,000-400,000/mm3).` This drop in platelet count puts the patient at risk for bleeding, so the most appropriate action for the nurse to take is to notify the healthcare provider immediately and follow their instructions. The healthcare provider may need to adjust the treatment plan and monitor the patient closely to prevent any complications.