Heparin
Class:
Anticoagulant.
Actions:
Functions as an anticoagulant by accelerating neutralization of activated
clotting factors.
Indications:
Situations where a hypocoaguable state is required (i.e. post MI, post-CVA,
pulmonary embolism).
Contraindications:
Should not be used unless there is a medical reason to anticoagulate the
patient.
Precautions:
Fever, urticaria, and anaphylaxis have been reported following heparin
administration skin necrosis can develop at site of subQ injections.
Side Effects:
Fever, bruising, oozing of blood.
Dosage:
Loading dose: 5,000 iu IV is a typical loading dose although large patients and
patients with heparin resistance may receive larger doses.
Maintenance dose:
Infusion therapy is typically started at 800 - 1,000 iu/hour. the dosage is
modified based upon the patient's prothrombin (pt) time.
Routes:
IV subQ (for prophylaxis).
Pediatric Dosage:
Rarely used.
Note: Feel free to discuss this medication and your experiences in administering it in an emergency or hospital based setting on our message board
