Heparin

Question 1

Heparin- Name

Answer 1

HEPARIN

Question 2

Heparin- Class

Answer 2

Anticoagulant

Question 3

Heparin- MoA

Answer 3

Inhibits normal blood clotting

by enhancing antithrombin III, blocking conversion of

prothrombin to thrombin

and fibrinogen to fibrin

Question 4

Heparin- Indication

Answer 4

Prevention of blood clot formation

Maintains patency of venous access devices

Question 5

Heparin- Contra

Answer 5

Patients on anticoagulants or thrombolytics

active bleeding / bleeding tendencies

Question 6

Heparin- S/E

Answer 6

Cardiovascular: minor to severe bleeding

Question 7

Heparin- Routes

Answer 7

IV, IVPB

Question 8

Heparin- A. Dose

Answer 8

5,000 U (units) IV,

then 20,000-40,000 U IVPB over 24 hours

Question 9

Heparin- P. Dose

Answer 9

50 U/kg IV,

then 25 U/kg /hour IVPB over 24 hours

Question 10

Heparin- EXTRAS

Answer 10

Precautions: Saline/Heparin locks should only be utilized in patients with stable vital signs and no need for volume replacement

Heparin may cause local irritation

Examine regularly for signs of internal bleeding

Do not administer IM injections before or during administration

Interactions: Flush venous access device before and after administration as Heparin may be incompatible with other medications

Onset is immediate, peak in minutes, duration 2-6 hours

Normal Saline (0.9% Sodium Chloride) has been found to have the same effect in an intermittent IV device with fewer side effects and no drug incompatibilities