thromboembolic Flashcards
(24 cards)
What is the function of anticoagulants?
Disrupt the coagulation cascade to suppress fibrin production.
How do anticoagulants work?
Inhibit synthesis or block activity of clotting factors.
What is the main indication for anticoagulants?
Venous thrombosis.
What is the function of antiplatelet drugs?
Inhibit platelet aggregation.
What is the main indication for antiplatelets?
Arterial thrombosis.
What is the function of thrombolytics?
Promote fibrin lysis and break down existing thrombi.
When are thrombolytics used?
Emergency situations with massive thrombi (e.g., MI).
How does unfractionated heparin work?
Activates antithrombin; blocks Factor Xa and thrombin.
How is UFH administered?
Injection only – IV or deep SQ.
Is UFH fast-acting?
Yes, works immediately – good for emergencies.
Common uses for UFH?
Stroke, PE, DVT (treatment/prevention), post-op DVT prevention, open-heart surgery, renal dialysis.
Why is UFH preferred in pregnancy?
Safe – doesn’t negatively affect the baby.
What lab should be monitored with UFH?
aPTT (activated partial thromboplastin time).
What is the target aPTT with heparin therapy?
60–80 seconds (normal = 40 seconds).
What other labs should be monitored?
Platelets, Hematocrit (Hct).
What are signs of bleeding from UFH?
Bruising, bleeding gums, abdominal pain, nosebleeds, hematemesis, melena.
What precautions can reduce bleeding risk?
Use electric razor and soft-bristle toothbrush.
What is the antidote for heparin toxicity?
Protamine sulfate.
What is the administration rate for protamine sulfate?
≤20 mg/min or 50 mg/10 min; <100 mg in 2 hours.
What is the protamine to heparin ratio?
1 mg protamine for every 100 units of heparin.
What are signs of heparin toxicity?
↑HR, ↓BP, bruising, petechiae, hematomas, melena.
What is HIT?
Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia – low platelets, increased bleeding/thrombosis risk.
What serious neuro AE is linked to UFH?
Spinal/epidural hematoma – risk of paralysis.
Can UFH cause hypersensitivity?
Yes, it may cause allergic reactions.
