Pharmacology and the Nursing Process by Linda Lane Lilley: Practice Exam

What special precautions should be taken when administering heparin?

1. It should always be given orally

2. It may be used without concern for dose based on patient's weight in kg

3. Ensure appropriate weight is recorded for dose calculation

4. Monitoring is not necessary for any form of administration

The correct answer is: Ensure appropriate weight is recorded for dose calculation

Heparin is typically administered to thin the blood and prevent blood clots. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure that the patient receives the appropriate dosage. Option A is incorrect because heparin is typically given intravenously or subcutaneously, not orally. Option B is incorrect because dosing based on a patient's weight in kg is necessary to avoid potential adverse effects. Option D is incorrect because monitoring of the patient's blood clotting time is an important aspect of heparin administration to ensure the correct dosage is given. Therefore, the special precaution of ensuring an appropriate weight is recorded for dose calculation is essential when administering heparin.