The nurse is caring for a client with pulmonary embolism who is receiving enoxaparin. Which of the following actions should the nurse include in the plan of care?
Explanation & Rationale
A. Enoxaparin is a low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) and should never be given intramuscularly because IM injections increase the risk of hematoma formation. It is administered subcutaneously. B. Vitamin K is the antidote for warfarin, not enoxaparin. For LMWH, protamine sulfate is used to reverse anticoagulation if needed. C. Routine monitoring of aPTT is not required with LMWH like enoxaparin because it has a predictable anticoagulant effect. Monitoring is typically reserved for special populations, such as renal impairment or obesity. D. Enoxaparin carries a risk of heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT), a potentially life-threatening complication. Platelet counts should be monitored regularly, especially during the first 2 weeks of therapy, to detect early thrombocytopenia and prevent complications.