A review of laboratory results reveals a 30% decrease in platelet count from baseline in a patient receiving intermittent intravenous heparin therapy. What nursing action is indicated?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A 30% decrease in platelet count is significant and indicates the potential for heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT), a serious adverse reaction to heparin. Nursing action should include reporting these findings to the healthcare provider immediately, as the heparin therapy may need to be discontinued and alternative treatments considered. Rerunning the test or diluting the heparin dose are not appropriate actions, and skipping a dose of heparin and checking PT/PTT would not address the potential for HIT.

A Review of Laboratory Results Reveals a 30% Decrease in Platelet