In disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), the clotting and bleeding mechanisms of the body are activated abnormally, which can lead to a range of laboratory abnormalities. The nurse should expect to see abnormal results on tests such as:
1. Platelet count: The platelet count is often decreased in DIC due to the formation of small blood clots that use up platelets.
2. Prothrombin time (PT) and activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT): These tests measure the time it takes for blood to clot. In DIC, both PT and aPTT can be prolonged due to the consumption of clotting factors.
3. Fibrinogen levels: Fibrinogen is a protein that is involved in blood clotting. In DIC, fibrinogen levels may be decreased due to its consumption in clot formation.
4. D-dimer: D-dimer is a protein fragment that is produced when a blood clot is broken down. In DIC, D-dimer levels are often elevated due to the breakdown of numerous small clots in the body.
5. Peripheral blood smear: A peripheral blood smear may show the presence of fragmented red blood cells (schistocytes) caused by the abnormal clotting.
It is important to note that not all patients with DIC will have abnormal results on all of these tests, and other laboratory abnormalities may also be present. The nurse should also consider the patient's clinical presentation and medical history when interpreting laboratory results.