Nurses play a critical role in the management of patients with DIC. Key responsibilities include:
- Monitoring Vital Signs: Regular monitoring of blood pressure, heart rate, respiratory rate, and oxygen saturation to detect signs of deterioration. - Assessing for Bleeding: Frequent assessment for signs of bleeding, including checking for petechiae, ecchymoses, and bleeding from intravenous sites. - Administering Medications and Blood Products: Administering prescribed medications such as anticoagulants or antifibrinolytics, and transfusing blood products (e.g., platelets, fresh frozen plasma) as ordered. - Educating Patients and Families: Providing education about the condition, its causes, and the treatment plan to patients and their families. - Collaborating with the Healthcare Team: Working closely with physicians, hematologists, and other healthcare professionals to ensure comprehensive care.
