Heparin Sodium 

 Antidote 🚫 ➡️ Protamine Sulfate

What’s it used for?

Subcutaneous Injection * Prophylactic prevention of DVT/PE

IV Infusion * Treatment of DVT and PE (IV Infusion) * Prevention of thrombus formation * Treatment of Atrial Fibrillation with emboli

How does it work❓

* Prevents the conversion of fibrinogen to fibrin, therefore preventing further clotting

Precautions ⚠️

* History of HIT (Heparin Induced Thrombocytopenia) * Severe thrombocytopenia (low platelets) * Hemorrhagic stroke * Open wounds * Ulcer disease * GI Bleed * Spinal cord injury * Sever liver or kidney impairment

Nursing Considerations 

* Assess for signs of bleeding and hemorrhage (bleeding gums; nosebleed; unusual bruising; black, tarry stools; hematuria; fall in hematocrit or BP; guaiac-positive stools * Monitor PTT and make changes to infusion rate based on protocol * Monitor platelet count every 2–3 days during therapy. * Monitor Hemoglobin and Hematocrit * Educate the patient to report signs of bleeding or unusual bruising