The patient is admitted with anemia and active bleeding.The nurse suspects intravascular disseminated coagulation ( DIC ).Definitive diagnosis of DIC is made by evidence of
A) a decrease in fibrin degradation products.
B) an increased D-dimer level.
C) thrombocytopenia.
D) low fibrinogen levels.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Diagnosis of DIC is made based on recognition of pertinent risk factors,clinical symptoms,and the results of laboratory studies.Evidence of factor depletion in the form of thrombocytopenia and low fibrinogen levels is seen in the early phase; however,definitive diagnosis is made by evidence of excess fibrinolysis detectable by elevated fibrin degradation products,an increased D-dimer level,or a decreased antithrombin III level.

The Patient Is Admitted with Anemia and Active Bleeding