ANTICOAGULATION THERAPY AND SIDE EFFECTS

 

Scenario: The patient above, had surgery three days ago.
He is on anticoagulation therapy (Heparin) for DVT. 
Anticoagulants are blood thinners. Their purpose is to
 prevent blood from clotting too easily. 

 Patients with atrial fibrillation may be placed on
 anticoagulation therapy.

The patient on anticoagulation therapy, is at risk for
bleeding. This may occur at the IV or dressing site,
gums, urine and more.

The care plan is used to reflect the potential for bleeding.
The nurse started an IV infusion of potassium, per MD
orders. It  must be remembered that IV potassium, even
when administered correctly, may cause irritation to the veins.

Enjoy the video: Anticoagulation therapy

Poor circulation may occur for a number of reasons.
The patient in heart failure, is at risk for stroke.

Myocardial infarction

A MI (myocardial infarction ) is also known as a heart
attack. It results from obstruction to blood flow. Fatty
deposits may cause this. 

Death of the heart muscle surrounding the obstructed
blood vessel will result. Symptoms such as lack of oxygen,
shortness of breath and chest pain will occur.

TPA

TPA ( Thrombolytic Plasminogen Activator) is
a " clot buster" that is used in the treatment of 
embolic stroke and myocardial infarction with
STEMI. 

TPA  is not without its side effects. Bleeding, 
particularly into the brain and at injection sites,
 seizures and possible anaphylaxis may occur.

  


The patient in third degree heart block is likely to display 
the EKG rhythm seen above. Typically, in a healthy heart,
Learn more, by clicking on the link: Lethal Rhythms


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