A client receiving unfractionated heparin for deep vein thrombosis has a platelet count drop from 250,000 to 80,000/mm3 on day 6 of therapy. For each group, select all responses that apply.

A platelet drop >50% from baseline after heparin exposure suggests heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT). The nurse must stop heparin immediately and notify the provider. Warm compresses are not indicated. Collaborative interventions include starting a non-heparin anticoagulant (e.g., argatroban) and sending HIT antibody test. Platelet transfusions are avoided because they may worsen thrombosis; continuing heparin is contraindicated.

Use the client-specific assessment findings and timing in the scenario rather than a memorized diagnosis label.

Connect the relevant cues to the safest nursing interpretation and action for this exact care setting.

The distractors are plausible in another context but are unsupported, mistimed, lower priority, or incomplete for the findings presented.

Address immediate threats first, stay within nursing scope, and reassess the client after the selected intervention.

For heparin-induced thrombocytopenia, select responses that are both clinically supported and appropriate at this point in care.

• HIT — Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia, an immune-mediated reaction causing platelet activation and thrombosis.
• platelet count — Number of platelets per cubic millimeter; normal 150,000-400,000/mm3.
• non-heparin anticoagulant — Alternative anticoagulant such as argatroban or fondaparinux used when heparin is contraindicated.