A client receiving heparin sodium asks the nurse how the drug works. Which of the following points would the nurse include in the explanation to the client?
A)It dissolves existing thrombi.
B)It prevents the conversion of factors that are needed in the formation of clots.
C)It inactivates thrombin that forms and dissolves existing thrombi.
D)It interferes with vitamin K absorption.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

It prevents the conversion of factors that are needed in the formation of clots. Heparin is an anticoagulant. It prevents the conversion of prothrombin to thrombin. It does not dissolve a clot.

A Client Receiving Heparin Sodium Asks the Nurse How the Drug