Understanding Heparin Dosing for Deep Vein Thrombosis

A nurse is caring for a client who has a deep vein thrombosis and is prescribed heparin by continuous IV infusion at 1,200 units/hr. How many mL/hr should the nurse set the IV pump to deliver?

• A. 12 mL/hr
• B. 24 mL/hr
• C. 30 mL/hr
• D. 36 mL/hr

Answer: (B)

To determine the volume in milliliters per hour that the nurse should set the IV pump to deliver for a continuous heparin infusion, it is crucial to know the concentration of the heparin solution available for infusion. While the details about the concentration were not provided in the question, the answer suggests a common concentration often used. For instance, if we assume that the heparin is available at a concentration of 50 units per mL, we can calculate the required flow rate: 1. Given a prescription of 1,200 units/hr, the nurse would divide the total units prescribed by the concentration of the heparin solution: 1,200 units/hr ÷ 50 units/mL = 24 mL/hr. Thus, setting the IV pump to 24 mL/hr would accurately deliver the prescribed dose of heparin. This coherent relationship between the unit measurement of the medication (units of heparin) and the volume of the diluent (mL of solution) illustrates why this choice is the right one when correctly considering the concentration of the heparin infusion. If the concentration were different, a new calculation would be performed based on that specific concentration. However, typically, 50 units/m

When caring for clients with a deep vein thrombosis (DVT), one of the key medications you might encounter is heparin. It's critical to understand how to calculate dosages accurately, especially when it involves setting up an IV pump for continuous infusion. You know what? Even the simplest math can feel daunting when you're staring down the responsibility of a patient's care, but don't worry. Let's break it down together, step by step.

Imagine you have a client prescribed heparin at a rate of 1,200 units per hour. Your first instinct might be to panic just a little. How do you translate units per hour into milliliters per hour? You're definitely not alone in this!

To solve this little puzzle, you'll need the concentration of the heparin solution at your disposal. Commonly, you'd find heparin at a concentration of 50 units per milliliter, but it’s always wise to double-check, as pharmacies can have different concentrations. Assuming the common 50 units/mL concentration, let’s crunch those numbers.

Here’s the thing: you’ll take that prescribed dosage of 1,200 units and divide it by the concentration—1,200 units/hr ÷ 50 units/mL = 24 mL/hr. Voila! Setting your IV pump to deliver 24 mL/hr ensures you’re administering the right dose of heparin for your client’s needs.

Now, that wasn’t so bad, right? A little simple math can go a long way in ensuring safe and effective patient care. And remember, if the concentration was anything other than 50 units/mL, you’d have to adjust your calculations accordingly. That’s a good nurse—always double-checking!

But let’s not stop there! Heparin administration isn’t just about the numbers. You’ve got to keep an eye out for the overall clinical picture, right? Managing a patient with DVT means being vigilant. You’re looking out for signs of bleeding, monitoring for potential side effects, and keeping the patient’s comfort and needs at the forefront of your practice. It’s a balancing act, but one that you’re well prepared for!

As you prepare for your Care Manager Certification Exam, remember that mastering these calculations is just part of the puzzle. You're not just learning numbers; you’re gearing up to provide whole-person care. Your understanding of pharmacology, the nuances of heparin administration, and the essential math involved will all contribute to your competence as a care manager.

So, what’s the takeaway here? Accurate dosing is absolutely crucial in heparin administration and can directly impact the effectiveness of DVT treatment. Each step taken—mathematical accuracy, patient monitoring, and clinical vigilance—works together to create a safety net for your clients.

Keep this in mind not just for your exams but as you step into your nursing practice. You’ve got this!