# The client has received a heparin infusion for 5 days. Click the laboratory result that requires immediate follow-up.

> source: MyMerci (mymerci.kr)  
> url: https://mymerci.kr/pages/nclex_q.php?qn_id=499743&lang=en  
> language: en  
> subject: Laboratory Values  
> category: ROR

## Question

The client has received a heparin infusion for 5 days. Click the laboratory result that requires immediate follow-up.

![](https://mymerci.kr/data/nclex/hotspot/v4/v4_heparin_platelets.svg)

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## Explanation

The platelet count fell from 240,000 to 82,000/µL, a decrease greater than 50% during heparin exposure. This pattern requires immediate evaluation for heparin-induced thrombocytopenia.

## In-depth explanation

Quick answer
The platelet count fell from 240,000 to 82,000/µL, a decrease greater than 50% during heparin exposure. This pattern requires immediate evaluation for heparin-induced thrombocytopenia.

Why this is correct
The platelet count fell by more than half during heparin exposure. That timing and magnitude require prompt evaluation for heparin-induced thrombocytopenia rather than judging the latest value in isolation.

Easy analogy or mental picture
Picture the three platelet values as a slope: the clinically important clue is the steep fall across days while heparin is being given.

Memory hook
The platelet fall from 240,000 to 82,000/µL is the urgent heparin-associated trend.

NCLEX decision rule
When heparin exposure is paired with falling platelets, compare the current count with baseline and timing, then escalate the concerning pattern.

Why the other choices are wrong
The aPTT, hemoglobin, and creatinine values answer different monitoring questions; they do not show the marked platelet trend requested.References

- [1]ASH: Guidelines for heparin-induced thrombocytopenia

## Clinical scenario

Clinical situation
The client has received a heparin infusion for 5 days.

What the nurse should notice
The platelet count fell from 240,000 to 82,000/µL, a decrease greater than 50% during heparin exposure. This pattern requires immediate evaluation for heparin-induced thrombocytopenia.

Transfer to practice
When heparin exposure is paired with falling platelets, compare the current count with baseline and timing, then escalate the concerning pattern.

## Key concepts

- **Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia** — An immune-mediated adverse effect associated with thrombosis and falling platelets.
- **Platelet trend** — Change in platelet count over time rather than a single isolated value.

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