A nurse is caring for a client who is receiving an IV infusion of heparin. Which of the following findings should indicate to the nurse the client is at risk for hemorrhage? (Select all that apply.)
Explanation & Rationale
Choice A rationale Thrombocytopenia, a low platelet count, increases the risk of bleeding and hemorrhage when receiving heparin. Choice B rationale Neutropenia, a low white blood cell count, does not directly increase the risk of hemorrhage. It is more related to infection risk. Choice C rationale Hypokalemia, low potassium levels, does not directly indicate a risk for hemorrhage. It can cause other complications but not specifically bleeding. Choice D rationale Fever is not a direct indicator of hemorrhage risk. It may indicate infection or other inflammatory processes. Choice E rationale Hyperglycemia, high blood sugar levels, does not indicate a risk for hemorrhage. It is more related to diabetes management. Choice F rationale Dark stools can indicate gastrointestinal bleeding, which is a sign of hemorrhage.