Update on the Treatment of Heparin-Induced Thrombocytopenia

Activity Summary

Required reading for all learners: Implicit Bias impacts patient outcomes

The use of unfractionated heparin and low-molecular-weight heparin remains widespread for the treatment and prevention of various thromboembolic disorders. Benefits of unfractionated heparin include its quick onset of action, short half-life, ease of monitoring, and reversibility. Low-molecular-weight heparin has the additional advantages of more predictable anticoagulant activity, less frequent monitoring, and potential use in the ambulatory setting. Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) is a potentially life-threatening complication of heparin exposure associated with potential thrombosis, limb gangrene and amputation, and death. The incidence of HIT ranges from less than 0.1% to 5% of patients and varies according to patient factors. The risk is highest in patients receiving unfractionated heparin (as opposed to low molecular weight heparin), those undergoing cardiac surgery, and those receiving therapeutic doses.

Objectives

Describe the pathophysiology behind heparin-induced thrombocytopeni
Identify pertinent diagnostic criteria for diagnosis of heparin-induced thrombocytopenia
Analyze anticoagulation options for patients with heparin-induced thrombocytopenia

Continuing Education Disclosure Statement

Successful Completion

Learners must complete the entire activity and the associated evaluation to be awarded contact hours AND read Implicit Bias impacts patient outcomes. No partial credit will be awarded.

Accreditation

The American Association of Critical-Care Nurses is accredited as a provider of nursing continuing professional development by the American Nurses Credentialing Center's Commission on Accreditation.
Provider approved by the California Board of Registered Nursing, Provider number CEP 1036, for {contactHours} contact hours.

Disclosures

Any relevant relationship between an ineligible company and an individual with the ability to influence clinical content will be identified by the Nurse Planner within the activity. Any relevant relationship between an ineligible company and an individual with the ability to influence clinical content has been mitigated.

Accreditation refers to recognition of continuing education only and does not imply AACN, ANCC, or CBRN approval or endorsement of any commercial products discussed or displayed in conjunction with this educational activity. Activities with pharmacology hours are to assist the APRN in fulfilling the pharmacotherapeutic education requirements for licensure and certification renewals.

Activities meet the standards for most states that require mandatory continuing education for license and/or certification renewal. AACN recommends consulting with your own state board of nursing or credentialing organization before submitting your certificate of completion.

Refund Policy

Continuing Education Activities are nonrefundable.