Medical Surgical NCLEX RN Related

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A client is admitted to the unit with a diagnosis of thrombophlebitis and deep vein thrombosis of the right leg. A loading dose of heparin has been given in the emergency room, and I.V. heparin will be continued for the next several days. The nurse should develop a plan of care for this client that will involve:

  • A. Administering aspirin as ordered
  • B. Encouraging green leafy vegetables in the diet
  • C. Monitoring the client's prothrombin time (PT)
  • D. Monitoring the client's activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) and International Normalized Ratio (INR)
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Heparin therapy for DVT requires monitoring aPTT to ensure therapeutic anticoagulation (1.5–2.5 times baseline). INR is less relevant for heparin but may be monitored if transitioning to warfarin. Aspirin is not typically used, and green leafy vegetables (high in vitamin K) may affect warfarin, not heparin.