HESI Pharmacology Practice Exam Related

Review HESI Pharmacology Practice Exam related questions and content

Heparin sodium is prescribed for the client. The nurse expects that the healthcare provider will prescribe which of the following to monitor for a therapeutic effect of the medication?

  • A. Hematocrit level
  • B. Hemoglobin level
  • C. Prothrombin time (PT)
  • D. Activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT)
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) is used to monitor the therapeutic effect of heparin sodium. Heparin affects the intrinsic pathway of coagulation, and monitoring aPTT helps ensure the medication is within the therapeutic range to prevent clot formation. Hematocrit and hemoglobin levels assess red blood cell concentrations, while prothrombin time (PT) is used to monitor the therapeutic effect of warfarin sodium, a different anticoagulant that affects the extrinsic pathway of coagulation.