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Discussion

Help with understanding Heparin

can someone please explain to me about heparin.

i know that ptt is 20-45 seconds and control is 1.5-2 times...what does it really mean?

i will give an example question and if someone could explain the reason why it is the correct answer.

question:

a client is hospitalized with a diagnosis of atrial fib. heparin 5,000 units is ordered every 12 hours to be given subq. the physician orders daily partial thromboplastin times (ptts). the result of the client's most recent ptt is 55. which of the following actions should be taken by the nurse?

a. document the results and administer the heparin.

b. withhold the heparin.

c. notify the physician.

d. have the test repeated.

answer is a.

pertaining to this question i thought ptt is suppose to be between 20-45 seconds and its 55 so why is the answer document and administer the heparin.

maybe it has something to do with the 1.5-2 times the control? if it does have something to do with it what is the control in the question?

thanks if you can help explain..i really am confused!

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    • Featured Replies

    You're giving heparin in order to minimize the risk of clots due to the A-fib.

    If the PTT had been in the 20-45 second range, it would have been subtherapeutic and the patient would be at elevated risk of thrombosis. 55 seconds indicates a therapeutic level of heparin. Hence, give the med as ordered in order to maintain the anticoagulation.

  • Quote

    "Pertaining to this question i thought PTT is suppose to be between 20-45 seconds and its 55 so why is the answer document and administer the heparin.

    maybe it has something to do with the 1.5-2 times the control? if it does have something to do with it what is the control in the question?"

    20-45 is the control. to be therapeutic you need it to be 1.5-2 times the control. this had confused me too at first. so what the range would be 30-90. does this help?

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    • Author

    I got it now!! Thank you guys for the help.

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