What are the nursing considerations when administering LMWH?
Nurses play a critical role in the administration and monitoring of LMWH therapy. Key considerations include:
- Patient Education: Educate patients on the purpose of LMWH, how to self-administer if required, and the importance of adherence to prescribed therapy. - Injection Technique: Teach proper subcutaneous injection technique, including site rotation to prevent lipodystrophy and tissue damage. - Monitoring for Side Effects: Monitor for signs of bleeding, such as bruising, hematuria, melena, and hematomas. Patients should also be educated to report any unusual bleeding. - Renal Function: Assess renal function regularly, as LMWHs are primarily excreted by the kidneys. Dosage adjustments may be necessary for patients with renal impairment. - Drug Interactions: Be aware of potential interactions with other medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and antiplatelet agents, which may increase bleeding risk.
