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 is typically considered to be 1.5 to 2.5 times the normal value of activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT). This range ensures adequate anticoagulation without increasing the risk of bleeding. Options A, B, and D are incorrect because they do not accurately reflect the therapeutic range for heparin. Option A provides a range in minutes, which is not a standard unit for aPTT measurement. Option B provides a range in seconds, which is too narrow for the therapeutic range of heparin. Option D provides a range in multiples of normal, but the upper limit of 3.0 times normal is higher than the typical upper limit of the therapeutic range for heparin.