A patient receiving heparin postoperatively to prevent deep vein thrombosis has a blood pressure of 90/50 mm Hg and a heart rate of 110 beats/minute. The patient's most recent aPTT is greater than 90 seconds. The patient reports lumbar pain. The provider will order what interventions initially? (Select all that apply.)

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The patient shows signs of heparin overdose or bleeding (hypotension, tachycardia, lumbar pain, and prolonged aPTT). Protamine sulfate is the antidote for heparin, and discontinuing heparin is necessary to prevent further complications.

A Patient Receiving Heparin Postoperatively to Prevent Deep Vein Thrombosis