Heparin

Question 1

Classification

Answer 1

Anticoagulant

Question 2

Mechanism of Action

Answer 2

• Inhibits formation of new clots
• Enhances the effects of antithrombin III (heparin cofactor) which interferes with conversion of prothrombin to thrombin, & interferes with the conversion of fibrinogen to fibrin.

Question 3

Indications

Answer 3

• Maintenance of IV catheter & venous lock patency (heparin lock)
• AMI, especaily those receiving TPA therapy

Question 4

Contraindications

Answer 4

• Hypersensitivity to the drug
• Active bleeding
• Bleeding tendencies
• Recent surgery
• Severe HTN
• Severe thrombocytopenia

Question 5

Adverse Effects

Answer 5

• Thrombocytopenia
• Hemorrhage
• Bruising

Question 6

Administration

Answer 6

• 5,000 Units SIVP or 100-150 U/kg over 60 seconds followed by 20,000-40,000 U mixed in NSS/D5W, infused over 24 hours

Question 7

Special Considerations

Answer 7

• To prevent incompatibility with other medications, flush Heparin lock with 3-5 mL of NSS before & after med administration
• Prehospital use is usually limited to heparin locks. Injections & infusions are rarely used prehospital.