The nurse notes that a patient with cardiac disease has IV heparin infusing and that it is behind by 2 hours.What is the best nursing action?
A) Increase the IV rate and recheck in 1 hour.
B) Change the infusion rate to TKO.
C) Discontinue the solution using aseptic technique.
D) Contact the healthcare provider for consultation.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Since heparin is a medication that requires close monitoring and has the potential for serious complications, such as bleeding, it is important to notify the healthcare provider for further instructions. Neither increasing the rate nor changing it to TKO would be appropriate without guidance from the provider. Discontinuing the solution would also not be appropriate without orders, as this could result in thrombosis or other complications.

The Nurse Notes That a Patient with Cardiac Disease Has