Heparin

Question 1

Pharmacology and presentation of Heparin?

Answer 1

5000 units : 5ml Ampoule

Anticoagulant, that inactivates factor IIa, and combines with antithrombin III to inhibit factor X. Causing inhibition of prothrombin to thrombin conversion and reduces new clot formation.

Summary = Inhibits multiple coagulation factors in the clotting cascade.

Question 2

Indicators of Heparin?

Answer 2

• Acute STEMI

Question 3

Contraindications of Heparin?

• A BATCH

Answer 3

• Known allergy or hypersensitivity
• Active bleeding (excluding menses)
• Bleeding disorders
• Current use of anticoagulant medications (i.e. Warfarin)
• Previous trauma or surgery in past four weeks
• Severe hepatic disease including oesophageal varices

Question 4

Cautions of Heparin?
- STR

Answer 4

• Renal impairment
• Severe uncontrolled hypertension
• TBI, Stroke or TIA in last 3 months

Question 5

Side Effects of Heparin?
- HTBP

Answer 5

• Bleeding
• Thrombocytopenia
• Hyperkalaemia
• Pain at injection site

Question 6

Dosing Regimes of Heparin?

Answer 6

• Adult STEMI = after cardiology consult and thrombolysis checklist. 4000 units IV, repeated 1000 units every 60mins, no max dose

Question 7

Onset and duration of Heparin?

Answer 7

• Onset = 1min
• Duration = 3-6hrs