Ten hours after successful thrombolysis for ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), a client is receiving lidocaine and heparin infusions. Which assessment(s) should the nurse monitor regularly during the reperfusion period? Select all that apply.
Explanation & Rationale
Choice A reason: APTT is essential for monitoring the therapeutic effect of heparin. It helps ensure anticoagulation is within a safe and effective range, reducing the risk of bleeding or clot formation. Choice B reason: Electrocardiographic changes, especially ST-segment resolution and T-wave inversion, are key indicators of successful reperfusion. Continuous ECG monitoring helps detect re-occlusion or arrhythmias. Choice C reason: Recurrence of chest pain may signal failed or incomplete reperfusion, or new ischemic events. It is a critical symptom that warrants immediate evaluation. Choice D reason: PT is primarily used to monitor warfarin therapy, not heparin. It is less relevant in the context of thrombolysis and heparin infusion, making it a lower priority in this scenario.