A nurse is managing the care of a patient who is readmitted to a hospital with a diagnosis of deep vein thrombophlebitis (DVT)1 month after discharge following orthopedic surgery.The patient is receiving IV heparin.In addition to an activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT), which laboratory result should the nurse monitor at least every other day?
A)Creatinine
B)Platelet count
C)ProTime
D)Reticulocyte count

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

When a patient is receiving heparin, it is important to monitor their platelet count as heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) is a potential complication which can occur 5 to 10 days after heparin therapy is initiated. Symptoms of HIT include a decrease in platelets and the development of new clots, which can be life-threatening. Monitoring the patient's platelet count every other day will help the nurse to detect early signs of HIT and take appropriate actions.

A Nurse Is Managing the Care of a Patient Who