ATI Hematologic System Test Related

Review ATI Hematologic System Test related questions and content

The nurse is reviewing the activated partial thromboplastin time for a patient receiving heparin. Which value indicates that the medication is within the therapeutic range?

  • A. 2.5 to 9.5 minutes
  • B. 9.5 to 11.3 seconds
  • C. 1.5 to 2.0 times normal
  • D. 2.0 to 3.0 times normal
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C (1.5 to 2.0 times normal) because the therapeutic range for heparin therapy is typically considered to be 1.5 to 2.0 times the normal control value for activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT). This range ensures adequate anticoagulation to prevent clot formation without increasing the risk of bleeding. Options A, B, and D are incorrect because they provide ranges that are either too short or too long for the therapeutic goal of heparin therapy. Option A (2.5 to 9.5 minutes) and Option D (2.0 to 3.0 times normal) are outside the typical therapeutic range for heparin, indicating subtherapeutic and supratherapeutic levels, respectively. Option B (9.5 to 11.3 seconds) is also incorrect as it reflects a range for prothrombin time (PT) rather than aPTT.