Hemostasis
What is the goal of coagulation?
Hemostasis (stopping bleeding w/o blocking circulation)
What happens in hypocoagulation?
Bleeding
What is normal platelet range?
150,000-400,000
What are 3 classic signs of DVT?
unilateral swelling, warmth, pain, redness
What class of meds prevent clot formation?
What is the first step of hemostasis?
Vasoconstriction
What happens in hypercoagulation?
Inappropriate clot formation
What lab monitors warfarin therapy?
PTT/INR
What are the 3 components of Virchow's Triad?
Venous stasis, endothelial injury, hypercoagulation
What medication dissolves existing clots?
Alteplase (tPA)
What forms the temporary plug during vessel injury?
Platelets
What genetic disorder causes prolonged bleeding d/t missing clotting factors?
Hemophilia
Which lab monitor heparin therapy?
aPTT
What is the major risk factor in hospitalized patients for DVT?
Immobility (venous stasis)
What is the major risk of using anticoagulants and thrombolytics?
Bleeding
What stabilizes the platelet plug?
Fibrin
What is a common clotting complication in the legs from hypercoagulation?
DVT
What lab helps detect clot breakdown and is often elevated in DVT/PE?
D-dimer
What are symptoms of a pulmonary embolism?
Sudden SOB, chest pain, tachycardia, hypoxia
What nursing interventions are important for a patient at risk for bleeding?
Monitor bruising, check stool/urine for blood, avoid IM injections, fall precautions, monitor labs
What are the 3 steps of hemostasis?
Vasoconstriction --> platelet plug --> coagulation cascade (fibrin formation)
What life threatening condition can occur if a DVT travels to the lungs?
Pulmonary embolism
What protein forms the mesh that stabilizes a clot?
Fibrin
A patient with DVT sudden develops SOB and hypoxia, what should the nurse suspect first?
PE
What nursing interventions help prevent DVTs?
Eaarly ambulation, SCDs, hydration, administer anticoagulants, monitor for PE