All Correct Answers 2025-2026
Updated.
A nurse is preparing to administer heparin intravenously (IV) to a patient who was admitted
with an acute pulmonary embolus. Which response by the nurse is appropriate when the
patient asks why the drug is given IV rather than orally? - Answer Heparin is poorly absorbed
by the GI tract and not available in oral form. It is given IV or SQ.
A patient was started on intravenous (IV) heparin at 1200 pm. When will the nurse assess the
activated thromboplastin time (aPTT)? - Answer 1800- a PTT should be assessed every 4-6
hours after giving heparin to ensure adequate dosing. Values should be 1.5-2 times of the
patient's baseline.
For which patient would the nurse anticipate administering heparin? - Answer Patient dx
with a-fib due to high risk for blood clots. Heparin prevents formation of blood clots
The nurse is preparing to administer heparin intravenously (IV). Which response by the nurse
would be appropriate when the patient asks when the medication will start working? - Answer
5-10 mins
The nurse is preparing to administer unfractionated heparin to three patients. Which patient
would the nurse be most concerned about when administering heparin? - Answer Patient
with activated thromboplastin time value of 98 seconds.
A patient who was started on continuous intravenous heparin for a pulmonary embolus
complains of "a lot of bruises" and "pink urine." Laboratory values show that platelets have
decreased from 225,000 mm3 to 75,000 mm3. Which condition would the nurse most likely
consider with these signs and symptoms? - Answer HIT- heparin-induced thrombocytopenia
from heparin
A nurse is preparing to administer enoxaparin, a heparin derivative. Which action by the nurse
demonstrates the correct technique for administering the medication? - Answer Administer
the drug at least 2 inches from the umbilicus.
A patient has been receiving subcutaneous heparin every 12 hours. The patient is scheduled to
have a lumbar puncture at 0900. Which action is the nurse's priority? - Answer Notify the